Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c40.38

c40.38

One architectural feature in the civic aspect of the royal towns of Nepal, which is of striking originality, is the monumental pillar, as these exist in considerable numbers in the durbar squares. But these were something more than an isolated column, as they supported on their wide capitals a large metal group of statuary of elaborate design, recalling in a manner the Asokan columns of a previous and very distant era. The free-standing pillar of the Newars is a monolithic erection, moulded and ornamented with patterns of historical derivation and crowned with a capital of lotus petals, expanded so as to form a circular basis for the metal superstructure. Apart from groups of divinities, mystic symbols, and other emblems, the most ideal use of these pillars was for the display of portrait statuary, so that several of the most illustrious rulers of the Mulla dynasty are commemorated in this elevated and dignified manner. Of these one of the finest is that of Bhupatindra (cir. 1750) therefore a relatively recent production. Raised some thirty feet above the flagged pavement of the Durbar Square of Bhatgaon, kneeling in a devotional attitude on his Lion Throne under a ceremonial parasol, this statue in gilt metal and of heroic size is not only a crowning effort on the part of the craftsmen, who set effective achievement for above idealism, but a sculpturesque representation, conventionally treated, of a ruler whose record is one of marked personality. Moreover this fine bronze portrait of a kingly figure faces and looks down on the main portal of the Durbar Hall, the ruler's own conception and one of the most gorgeous works of art in the entire State. This doorway stands within a red brick pylon surmounted by an elegant metal roof, the combination of colours forming a pleasing setting to the actual opening in the centre. Of the characteristic design of such entrances, square-headed and with an immense gilt tympanum above, the composition as a whole is charged with symbolic elements embossed in the highest relief of which the metal and its skilled manipulators were capable This "Door of Gold" represents the consummation of the Nepalese artificers handicraft, a work of art of the most splendid order. Other stone columns also examples of this method of displaying portrait statuary grace the squares of the royal towns, some supporting several figures or family groups all of exceptional interest and artistic merit but none attain the simple dignity of the one described above.