Synopsis The growth of Hindu iconography cannot be studied in isolation from the art and architecture of a particular period. Their evolution is inter-linked but the origins cannot be so ideally traced. Conscious of the oceanic nature of the Hindu Pantheon, more so of the great God Siva, a maiden attempt is made here to integrate the integrate the development of his iconography, architecture and connected ritual from the earliest times to the beginning of seventh century A.D. The study is intensive and based on specific archaeological vestiges, rather than sporadic literary data, although the latter's relevance does not go unrecognized. The subject matter presented here is largely based on the author's field work at the various sites, notably Gudimallam, Amaravati, Nagarjunakonda and Chejerla. The text is enlivened with copious illustrations, several among them appearing for the first time. The presentation is lucid, objective and original.