The big temples of Thanjavur and Gangaikondacholapuram, built by Rajaraja and Rajendra, are architectural and sculptural marvels. Chola temples often became the nuclei of settlements which grew around them. These were centres of craft production. Amongst the crafts associated with temples, the making of bronze images was the most distinctive. Chola bronze images are considered amongst the finest in the world. While most images were of deities, sometimes images were made of devotees as well.

Chola bronze images are considered amongst the finest in the world because of their exceptional artistic beauty, technical excellence, and cultural significance. The Chola dynasty, which ruled over a significant part of southern India from the 9th to the 13th century, produced some of the most exquisite bronze sculptures in history. These sculptures are highly regarded not only within India but also internationally for their unique style and craftsmanship.

Historical Significance
- The Chola bronze images hold immense historical and cultural significance as they provide valuable insights into the religious and social life of the Chola period.
- These sculptures primarily depict Hindu deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Devi, showcasing the religious beliefs and practices prevalent during that time.
- They were created for use in temples and played a vital role in religious rituals, serving as objects of worship and devotion.

Artistic Beauty
- Chola bronze images are renowned for their sublime beauty and aesthetic appeal. The artists skillfully captured the divine grace and elegance in their creations.
- The sculptures exhibit a perfect balance between realism and idealism, with each figure displaying a sense of serenity and tranquility.
- The artists paid meticulous attention to detail, portraying intricate jewelry, elaborate headdresses, and finely crafted attire.
- The dynamic poses and fluidity of movement in the sculptures lend them a sense of liveliness, making them appear almost lifelike.

Technical Excellence
- Chola bronze images showcase the remarkable technical skills of the craftsmen who created them.
- The lost-wax casting technique was employed to produce these sculptures, which involved creating a wax model and encasing it in clay before casting it in metal.
- The artists achieved remarkable precision and intricate detailing through this method, ensuring that each sculpture was a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
- The sculptures also exhibit a high level of metallurgical expertise, with the use of various alloys and the application of patina to enhance the visual appeal.

International Recognition
- Chola bronze images have received international acclaim for their artistic and cultural significance.
- They have been exhibited in renowned museums and galleries worldwide, further enhancing their global recognition.
- Art enthusiasts and scholars from various countries have praised the Chola bronzes for their artistic excellence and contribution to the art world.
- Their timeless beauty and historical significance have made them highly sought after by collectors and art connoisseurs globally.

In conclusion, Chola bronze images are considered amongst the finest in the world due to their historical significance, artistic beauty, technical excellence, and international recognition. These sculptures reflect the mastery of the Chola craftsmen and continue to inspire awe and admiration even centuries after their creation.