Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c28.44

c28.44

In studying the statuary on this building one is struck at once by the expert manner in which each figure, or group of figures, has been so modelled that not only are they architecturally conceived, but they also merge themselves into the building so as to form part of the structure itself. One cannot help comparing this treatment with some of the famous compositions of modern times, where the architect having designed his building, decides that here in one position or there in another a figure or group of statuary may be imposed on his architectural background as a form of enrichment or to emphasize a point of interest. And so the statuary is produced, separately, beautiful no doubt in itself, but detached or isolated, in no sense a part of the composition as a whole; in other words it is an "exhibition" piece of stone, marble, or bronze. Several hundred years ago, the Orissan master-mason intuitively devised his sculpture so that it is embodied in his building scheme and so forms an integral part of his architectural ideal