Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c16.31

c16.31

Just as the existing structure is in effect a misrepresentation of the original, so the accessories of the tower, and its embellishment, are but inferior imitations of the old work. It is true the main lines of the ornamentation appear to have been correctly followed, as each side of the building is divided vertically into five recessed planes, and horizontally into seven zones, both planes and zones diminishing upwards in order to conform to its tapering configuration Also the zone on each face contains a row of five niches, but where are now empty recesses, the sealing shows in each a statuette of the Buddha, the entire surface presenting a form of architectural enrichment not unlike that employed with such effect at Bhitargaon, where there are repetitions of the chaitya-arch motif enshrining figures A similar alteration is seen in the finial surmounting the whole structure, for originally there appear to have been prominent turrets at each corner of the apex while in the centre is what may be a stupa with a *harmika*, and a triple umbrella, with flags, festoons and banners.