Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c19.22

c19.22

The other chaitya hall of the series is No. 26, and was excavated at least fifty years later than the preceding. Although an exceedingly fine and rich production, it is clear that the style had arrived at its adequate fulfilment, the turning-point had been reached, and no further progress in this particular form of architecture could be expected. Such an inference is established by the fact that there is not that correlation, or equilibrium of its parts which is so satisfying in the earlier example. It is approximately one-third larger in its dimensions, as it measures 68 ft. long, 36 ft. wide, and 31 ft. high, while, besides the two at the entrance, it contains 26 columns, each 12 ft. in height. The architectural treatment of this hall is in much the same style as No. 19 but the ornamentation has been increased, as may be noticed in the additional member introduced into the capital of the pillar, the recessing of the panels, with the elaboration generally of the triforium and in the insertion of decorative features wherever a space offered. The stupa is an imposing conception, overlaid with a wealth of carving, but as a whole it lacks the graceful proportions and rhythmic effect of the earlier type Externally this chaitya hall has been much damaged, as a broad pillared portico which extended across its entire front has disappeared, thus detracting considerably from the appearance of the facade. Inside the portico it is entered by three doorways, and above is the chaitya window against a background of richly carved figure compositions. There is almost an excess of sculpture in this example, most of it of a slightly monotonous order, which, together with the method of its execution are further proofs that the decline of the style was imminent. (Plate L, Fig. 1).