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) v4.c29.s5.92

v4.c29.s5.92

The *Purāṇas* and the *Āgamas* are huge compilations gathered together from various sources dealing with heterogenous subjects including architecture and sculpture. Although casual references are met with in all the *Purāṇas*, nine of them have treated the subject more systematically, and have materially contributed to the later *Śilpa-śāstra* texts and other works. The *Matsya-purāṇa*, for instance, has eight comprehensive chapters dealing in great detail with architecture and sculpture. In one of these chapters accounts are given of eighteen ancient architects. One chapter is devoted to the columns, which are divided into five classes as in the western system, and their component parts into eight mouldings exactly like those of the Graeco-Roman orders. Buildings are classified under three heads and twenty types, of which plans, general measures, pavilions, halls, storeys, steeples and cupolas are referred to. Building materials are discussed in a separate chapter. Three chapters are devoted to the description of images, which includes a reference to the *tālamāna* also. In the other two chapters the Phalli and Altars are described.²