Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c39.33

c39.33

This completed form was attained with magnificent effect in the great Temple of the Sun at Martand which became the model for all subsequent Brahmanical temples in Kashmir. (Plate CXXXVI, Fig. 1) Occupying a superb site five miles from the ancient town of Anantnag, although now a crumbling ruin, it is still possible to understand readily its original appearance. Its design in the main followed that previously outlined, of a comprehensive central structure including the sanctuary standing within a rectangular courtyard surrounded by a cellular peristyle which is entered by an imposing gateway. In one particular however this temple is not exactly according to type, as in front of the central building is a detached portico with two chambers in each of its wings, additional compartments evidently especially provided for the accommodation and performance of some ceremonial connected with sun-worship. Even with this supplementary formation the whole scheme is comparatively simple and it is the skilful manner in which all its parts are adjusted and treated that gives this temple its supreme aesthetic and architectural character. In the central building itself the outstanding features are the great trefoil arched recesses under their angular pediments, one of these occupying each face, and separated by a massive pilaster at each angle The entire composition is raised on a high plinth and is terminated above by a pyramidal roof Where emphasis was required, this was provided by suitably devised and boldly-shaped mouldings, and richness was obtained by a considerable amount of carving in high relief, chiefly of figures in niches, such plastic decoration being applied in strict accordance with the ceremonial of the sun-worship, as well as with the aesthetic needs of the architecture. The great trefoils are not true arches, but are constructed by means of oversailing courses of masonry, the undersides of the stones being shaped to produce the necessary semicircular curves.