Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c17.31

c17.31

The other example, the Iron Pillar at Delhi, is an entirely different conception, and, in several respects is unique (Plate X). Prepared to the order of king Kumaragupta[^\dagger] about A.D. 415, it was originally erected on a site near Mathura, being removed to its present position in the Kutub Mosque at Delhi in mediaeval times. Its total height, including the capital, is 23 feet 8 inches and it is composed of pure malleable iron, the entire weight exceeding six tons The high technical skill required to forge such an object which, until recently, would have taxed the resources even of the largest foundries is a remarkable tribute to the genius and manipulative dexterity of the Indian iron-worker. When first set up it bore on its summit an image of a *garuda*, the "vehicle" or attribute, of Vishnu, which has now disappeared, but even without this feature the design of its superstructure, although outwardly little more than a pleasing combination of conventional mouldings, has interesting implications. This superstructure may be resolved into three separate parts, the uppermost being the square abacus, identified as a refined adaptation of that which usually surmounts the Gupta "order", a shape later to become universal whenever an ornamental throne or pedestal was required. Below is a melon-shaped member, in which it is possible to recognise a phase in the evolution of the "cushion" or "vase" motif, to be used with such effect at a slightly later date. And, lastly, there is the campaniform capital, marking one of the last appearances of the Persepolitan attribution, here however still retaining the vigorous outline and rounded fluting of the original model. Although, in some of its details there is a subtle grace, the Iron Pillar as a whole is not a work of art of exceptional merit, but as a landmark denoting the dividing line between the age of primitivism and the beginning of the early mediaeval era, it is important.