Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c28.20

c28.20

The method of construction used in this building serves to confirm its early origin, as the masonry consists of stones of large size kept in position by means of their weight and balance, aided by a system of interlocking flanges, so that no mortar or cementing material is needed. (Plate LI, Fig. 1). An interesting comparison may be instituted between this temple, and the somewhat earlier temples of the Chalukyans at Aihole It will be seen that the tower of the Parasrameswar example, although inclined to be heavy and crude, is an improvement on the Indo-Aryan type of sikhara subsequently added to the Aihole buildings. Moreover the incipient form of clerestory introduced into the Orissan temple is also an advance on the double roof of the Durga and Huchchimaligudi temples of the Chalukyan group, from which however it may have been derived. It is the peculiar treatment of such features, which suggests that some communication of impressions may have been maintained between these two centres, thus enabling the Orissan mason to benefit by the experiences of his fellow craftsman in the Deccan. On the other hand, there are certain portions of the architectural ornamentation in the Parasrameswar temple, such as pilasters with vase and foliage capitals, a motif usually associated with the Gupta mode, indicating, as already mentioned, that there were also influences from the more northerly source. Taking all these factors into consideration it may be inferred that the approximate date of the Parasrameswar temple is towards the end of the eighth century, a date which also marks the introduction of the Indo-Aryan style of architecture into this region.