Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c34.12

c34.12

If the exteriors of these temples suggest a wooden origin, the interiors are obviously lithic, as the numerous pillars of the mandapas plainly testify. The Mudabidri type of pillar is a thickset solid production, in all some twelve feet in height, with the lower third consisting of a plain square prism, in marked contrast to the remainder of the shaft, which is circular in section and profusely moulded. As to the capital this is a composition of brackets and pendent lotus buds around a square abacus, the whole a most ornate conception. In their design these pillars are closely allied to what may be referred to as the Chalukyan order, as this prevailed at the time in the country of Mysore. They were produced also by the same technical process, the heavy rounded mouldings being obtained by turning the monolithic shaft in a large lathe. The pillars in the Bhiradevi mandapa of the Chandranatha temple are exceptionally elaborate, the shafts being moulded and chiselled into all kinds of fine patterns. Certain parts of these are undercut into detached lotus petals and miniature balustrades all executed with incredible precision, patience, and skill.