Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c36.33

c36.33

Such is the first impression conveyed by the general appearance of this building, followed by the feeling that, although it is clearly executed in terms of architecture, it is also equally clear that it is architecture of a very special kind. A closer inspection confirms this view. As one proceeds along the broad platform which encircles the conjoint structure, so planned in order to provide space for ceremonial processions, the walls of the temple begin to suggest the analogy of a voluminous illuminated scroll, which is unrolled as one progresses. On it is portrayed, one after another, the whole company of Indra's heaven, each of these immortals enshrined within a structural niche, and canopied by aureola of heavily hanging foliage. Then, as the scroll unfolds, its wide margins become visible, framing the pictures of the divine beings in the centre with rich ornamental borders, comprising repeating patterns of natural forms and conventional animals, scenes of figures illustrating popular myth and legend, one continual complicacy of symbol and imagery, elaborately carved and with infinite detail (Plate CXXVII, Fig. 1).