Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c45.6

c45.6

Such are the broad outlines of these Cham towers, but over and above this structural basis, additional features have been superimposed of a sufficiently distinctive nature as to add very considerably to their character. Below, on the vertical portion, in the centre and between the ranges of pilasters on each side, an ornamental offset is projected, rising from pediment to cornice and completely filling this otherwise vacant space. In its design it resembles a tabernacle and alter combined, having a foliated and arched canopy supported on pillars, very often with the apex of the lower arched feature penetrating into the base of the same motif above. Over all are carried low relief arabesque patterns enriching the entire edifice like a finely woven fabric On the portion above, the same elaborate treatment is followed, but in this instance in the centre of each story the ornamental offset breaks the lateral lines by being in more pronounced relief, the line of vertical projections continuing until they join the pinnacle rising spire-like over all. (Plate CLXI)