Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c42.17

c42.17

Referring more specifically to the two kinds of structure that make up the majority of the buildings in Pagan, among the stupas one of the most typical examples is that known as the Mangalazedi, erected in 1274. The system of receding terraces, usually three of five in number, square in plan, and approached by stairways in the middle of each face, is the principle adopted in the generality of buildings of this order, and in the Mangalazedi stupa the five platforms comprising the high basement are excellently proportioned. Having circumambulated these processional paths, the pilgrim, on attaining the uppermost terrace, sees mounting up above him the circular stupa, concentrically moulded as its base, then rising in the form of a massive bell-shape to terminate in another ringed feature crowned by the slender pointed *hti*. To produce a rhythmic quality into the structure as a whole miniature replicas of the main stupa, in the form of ornamental turrets, break the outline of the angles, while bas-reliefs, are introduced at the various stages to enrich the entire composition and at the same time to attract the attention of the devout in the course of their progression around the shrine.