Saint Sundarar with Paravai

Why in news? The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art has announced the return of three bronze sculptures to India after provenance research established that they were illegally removed from temple settings in Tamil Nadu.
The sculptures being returned are:
•    Shiva Nataraja – Chola period (10th century)
•    Somaskanda – Chola period (12th century)
•    Saint Sundarar with Paravai – Vijayanagara period (16th century)
The Saint Sundarar with Paravai bronze originated from a 16th-century Shiva temple located in Veerasolapuram village, Kallakuruchchi Taluk (Villupuram district), Tamil Nadu.
Vijayanagar Empire: 
The Vijayanagar Empire (1336–1672) was a major political power in South Indian history, ruled successively by four dynasties—Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu. 
The empire was founded in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama dynasty on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River. Originally associated with the Kakatiyas of Warangal, they later proclaimed independence with the support of Vidyaranya. The decline of the Hoysala kingdom enabled early expansion, and by 1346, Vijayanagar absorbed Hoysala territories.
Deva Raya II was the greatest Sangama ruler. After his death, Sangama power declined, and the Saluva dynasty (1486–1509) ruled briefly.