Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c24.7

c24.7

These dimensions serve to show that the Koranganatha is a building of modest proportions. Compared with the temples of the previous period, although conceived on the same general principle, there is a marked change in the method of architectural treatment. In the composition of the exterior it displays a noticeable simplification in all its parts, which are also more reasoned in their forms and in their distribution; an elimination of much of that detail which frets the surfaces of the later Pallava example is likewise observable. Moreover, it is proof that the builders had acquired an appreciation of the value of plain spaces, together with due sense of the character and correct location of the architectural features required for the purposes of embellishment. That dominating element of the previous style, the lion motif, both sedent and rampant, has disappeared, the pillars and pilasters which this leogriff invariably adorned, being converted into purely abstract conventions of mouldings and other similar forms. The Chola conception of the Dravidian order of capital at this stage is admirably illustrated by the pillars of its interior. (Plate XI, Fig. 11). Two changes from the Pallava type of order are discernible, one relating to the capital itself, the other to the abacus above. In the capital a neck moulding (*padmabhandam*) has been introduced where it joins on to the shaft, thus appropriating Fig 2