Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c31.26

c31.26

The essential parts of the Modhera temple are, however, contained in the enclosed structure at the rear of the preceding, as this includes the shrine. Externally this building is on plan an oblong formation with an extreme length of 80 feet, and a width of 50 feet, having its long sides, not diagonal as in the case of the hypostyle hall, but parallel to the axis of the scheme as a whole. In its design recessed angles are also a distinctive feature of the exterior, while the sole entrance is through a pillared portico on the east, where it connects with the western or rear doorway of the *sabha-mandapa*. At intervals in the sides are window openings, five in number, each a well-proportioned aperture, and, with its side pillars, relieving the wall surface in an interesting manner. The elevation is composed of the three main divisions already referred to with the basement or *pitha* consisting of the conventional range of carved mouldings, above which is the spacious *mandovara*, or panelled wall-face, richly embellished with figure sculpture, each image enshrined in a niche, the principal divinities in the larger and central ones, female figures such as dancers and musicians at the sides, with saints and ascetics in the smaller and less prominent. The superstructure of this building has completely disappeared, but it comprised the traditional arrangement of a low pyramidal roof over the front portion, and a tall turreted sil hara over the shrine. In both these formations the recessed chases, still visible in the body of the structure, were continued upward, those carried up into the spire providing that element of verticality to its outward appearance which, in its present truncated condition, is lacking. (Plate CVII).