Established in 1946, the Thanjavur Museum was initially located within the Thanjavur Art Gallery. Later, it was moved to its current location to accommodate its growing collection. The museum's collection primarily focuses on artifacts from the Chola, Nayak, and Maratha periods, reflecting the successive rulers who shaped the region's history. Many of the bronze sculptures were originally housed in temples around Thanjavur. The museum serves as a repository for preserving and displaying these invaluable pieces of South Indian art and history, providing insights into the region's cultural evolution over centuries. The museum continues to expand its collection through acquisitions and donations.