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.c14.s33.2
Mānasāra Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Mānasāra-Śilpaśāstra; III. Mānasāra on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Mānasāra: Translation; V. Architecture of Mānasāra: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v2.c14.s33.2
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v2.c14.s33.2
The *toraṇa* or arch is stated to be an ornament for the thrones (*āsana*) of gods and kings. It is supported on dwarf pillars (*aṅghri*) which rest on the pedestal (*pīṭha*) of the image. The arch admits of various shapes. It may be circular triangular, crescent-shaped, bow-shaped or of any other suitable form. Directions for making these arches, as well as the measurements of their constituent parts are given in detail. With regard to their ornamentations, arches are divided into four kinds, technically called *patra-toraṇa* (foliated arch), *pushpa-toraṇa* (floral arch), *ratna-toraṇa* (jewelled arch), and *chitra-toraṇa* (ornamental arch).