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) v6.c40.s1.14

v6.c40.s1.14

'Measured from the first pavement to the base of the drum the height of the plinth is 20 feet. . . . The approach to it was in the middle of its eastern side, and was more than ordinarily elaborate. It consisted of a series of steps and landings which led upwards into a narrow vestibule. . . . On the opposite side of this vestibule was a short passage, from which two flights of steps ascended north and south to the top of the platform; and closing the passage, at its western end was a small image-chapel, or a niche, which appears to have been 3¾ feet above the pavement of the passage. This image-niche (7 feet deep by 4½ feet wide) occupies a particularly prominent position, being directly opposite to, though slightly above, the approaching stairway. In it Mr. Banerji found some remains of a statue of Buddha, seated cross-legged, probably on a lotus throne. The core of the image, he says, was of brick covered with a coating of mud, which had originally been painted or gilt.’¹