Can anyone advise when the concept of having utsava murthy begin.I dont see much reference prior to pallava period for icons cast in metal. so when exactly did the concept of taking out the idol in ceremonial processions start.
Further, can anyone suggest a good book for south indian temple sculpture. I am looking for ornamentation in particular. in this context do pallava/chola/pandya figurines wear metti ( toe ring), thalli ( mangal sutra etc).