Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c18.25

c18.25

Apart from being smaller, the two other Brahmanical temples of the series differ from the preceding in the arrangement of the pillars within the columned hall. In each instance the columns are eight in number and so placed as to be equidistant from each other, except in the spacing of those in the central aisle, where the intercolumniation is slightly wider. Although this alignment of the pillars is an improvement on that of No 3, it still suggests some uncertainty as to their correct disposition. The facade of each of the smaller temples consists of a colonnade of four pillars forming the verandah on the inside of which are two pillars at the entrance to the central hall. The exterior of No. 1 is 42 feet wide, while that of No. 2 is 33 feet, and in comparing them relatively with No. 3, they both penetrate further into the rock, the entire depth of No 1 being over 50 feet from its front steps to the back wall of the cella. It is from the more considered nature of their plans, and also from the restrained character of the sculpture, that the slightly latter date has been attributed, the latter showing itself particularly in certain refinements in the mouldings, as for instance those around the entrance to the pillared hall of No. 2, which are astonishingly modern in treatment.