Studies in Indian Art c13.s2.1

c13.s2.1

The small temple at Darrā in Kotah (Malwa) adds one more example to the moderate sized temples of early Gupta period. It stands on a raised plinth measuring 44'×74' with stepped approaches from the left and right corners of the front side. The temple facing east stands nearer the western side of the plinth. The cella or sanctum (garbhagriha) consists of four square pillars, 5½ ft. apart from each other (Fig. 134-5). Each pillar is surmounted by a square capital with projections on the four sides carved with scroll work. Above the two projections on the same side is a lintel covered by a flat stone of moderate size carved with a big full-blown lotus in the centre showing two bands of petals and a band of floral scroll work. There are four similar but smaller lotuses in the four corners.