Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c46.14

c46.14

Yet although this group of shrines contains some admirable architecture, these buildings may be regarded as merely the satellites of the stupendous structure of the Borobudur, which rose in their vicinity, and is of virtually the same period. This immense stupa, undoubtedly the largest monument dedicated to Buddhism, and one of the most remarkable architectural productions achieved by the hand of man, not only on account of its vast dimensions, but also by reason of its endless galleries of bas-reliefs and statuary, must have taken many years to complete. No definite date of its construction is recorded, but it probably occupied the large army of skilled workmen engaged in its creation part of the eight and probably the whole of the first half of the ninth century, a total of at least seventy-five years. It is the only stupa of note on the island, but the entire Buddhist community at the time appears to have concentrated its efforts on this one grand symbol of their faith. As with most Buddhist monuments the site of the Borobudur was selected with great care, and is a singularly appropriate one, as it crowns a high commanding position which adds not a little to its impressive appearance. The elevated plateau on which it stands overlooks the undulating wooded country-side, interrupted by areas of vivid green rice fields, while the distance is encircled by ranges of mountains, some of them still active volcanoes, from which pillars of smoke erupt to disperse themselves into the upper atmosphere. Wrapped in that supreme spirit of peace emblematic of the creed with which it is identified, yet the Borobudur has gazed for over a thousand years on a landscape where the forces of nature are ever restless and frequently display their most turbulent mood. And over all is bathed a golden light, characteristic of this tropical island, an iridescent refulgence probably occasioned by the volcanic vapour with which the whole air is surcharged.¹