Manasara Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Manasara-Shilpashastra; III. Manasara on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Manasara: Translation; V. Architecture of Manasara: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v2.c13.s3.60

v2.c13.s3.60

The *Harsha-charita* is a history of Harshavardhana of Kanauj, during whose reign the famous Chinese traveller Hieun Tsang visited India. In this history it is stated that "the palace had besides the harem always more than three courtyards; the outer one being for people and for state reception, the next inner one for sardars (chiefs or nobles) and the third one for intimate persons only. The palaces were stately buildings, though not of stone. The floors, however, are described as made of shining stones. The columns and walls were ornamented with gold and even precious stones. There was usually a several storeyed building with inner gardens of flower-beds and large fruit trees." Mention is made also of detached buildings like the *Maṇḍapas* or pavilions for the purposes of *sabhā* (council hall), *satra* (inn), *prapā* (drinking-house), and *prāg-vaṁśa*.² The useful articles of house furniture, such as thrones (*siṁhāsana*), couches (*śayana*), and *āsandi*, meaning chairs, are also described.³