The evolution and development of Jaina iconography forms an integral part of the study of Jainism. Among the various regions in peninsular India, Tamilnadu has its due share of contribution to Jaina iconography, but still it remains largely an untrodden field. The study of Jaina iconography helps one to understand the evolution of the images of Tirthankaras and their attendant deities from a very early period. Successive changes brought about in the sphere of religion are mirrored in the icons of the attendant deities and their attributes, although the iconic of the Tirthankaras remains unchanged. The impact of brahmanical religion also led to phenomenal changes in their iconographic representations. These images often bear testimony to the cultural attainment of their makers and the social traits of their worshippers. Inorder to present a comprehensive picture of the overall Jaina iconographic development in Tamilnadu, a complete study of the Jaina literature, epigraphical documents, sculptural wealth and paintings has been undertaken.
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