Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c28.23

c28.23

The second group of buildings comprising the "Middle Period" of the Orissan style, and dating from cır. 900 to 1100 A.D. consists of a series of temples which represent the movement at its early maturity or prime What is believed to be the first example of the phase is the small temple of Muktesvara situated with a number of others on the outskirts of the town of Bhubaneswar, and probably built about A D 975. (Plate LXXXIII, Fig. 1). It is a miniature gem of architecture as it is not only a highly finished structure, ornamented with fascinating carved patterns, but in addition it is approached by an arched gateway, or torana, of the most elegant design and execution (Plate XCII). There are certain details in the design of this temple, which enable its date to be fixed with tolerable accuracy as for instance the shape of the vase base of the pilasters, the character of the bracket supports to the figures, and the modelling of the figures themselves, all of which imply a slight immaturity as if they were still in course of development. That its elements are a considerable advance on those of Parasrameswar and Vaital Deul of the previous group is quite clear, but that it is also not so finished in its forms as the remaining examples of the series, is likewise apparent. The Mukteswara temple is 45 feet long, 25 feet at its widest part, and its tower is hardly 35 feet high, but although of such limited dimensions it is all so exceptionally well proportioned, and its parts so skilfully adjusted that it readily attracts the eye In its surface decoration there is such beauty of form that all its surfaces resolve themselves into one harmonious effect, but a large figure-design repeated on each side of the tower stands out on account of its vigorous grace. The torana archway in front of the entrance is one of the most original conceptions throughout the entire style, and evidently the production of an artist having superior vision and skill, with a mind above his fellows. This detached portal consists of two pillars supporting around arch within a semi-circular shaped pediment, the whole very substantially proportioned, but all its parts lightened and diversified by exquisite carving. The Mukteswara temple is one of the few temples of the Orissan group which has sculptured decoration in its interior.