Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c31.13

c31.13

The interiors of these temples display several notable characteristics. In this western development the architectural style is definitely peristylar, as groups of elegantly carved pillars form an essential part of its content. These columns are arranged geometrically leaving an octagonal area, or nave, in the centre of the main hall, while outside this they are so spaced so as to constitute the aisles. The shafts of the pillars rarely taper, but are divided horizontally into decorative zones or drums, the upper being less in diameter than the lower, so that they diminish by stages, to finish in a bracket-capital or *sira*. Surrounding the nave the pillars are provided with an extension or attic of dwarf-pillars also bearing bracket capitals, the interval between the upper and lower *siras* being filled by inclined struts or braces each carrying an image, usually a female figure, carved in high relief. These attic pillars, with the architrave above, while raising the height of the nave, also support the central dome, which consists of a shallow bowl-shaped ceiling formed by a succession of overlapping courses, the joints being so concealed by intricate carving that the whole appears as if moulded in one piece. That significant feature of the temple interior, the shrine doorway, is designed so that its decorative scheme composes with that of the pillars, as it consists of horizontal bands of figures and foliage, the textural effect of this portal being that of a richly sculptured stratification.