Mediaeval Temples of the Dakhan c6.32

c6.32

In the largest class of domical ceilings the distance apart at which the four main pillars are set necessitates the insertion of two intermediate pillars on each side of the square, and these are so placed that their points of support form the corners of an octagon within the square. From this, triangular slabs filling in the corners, the octagon is worked up to a circle which forms the base of the dome. This is constructed of ascending concentric and diminishing rings of stones laid upon horizontal beds, each ring being corbelled forward until they meet at the crown, the keystone, together with one or more of the rings immediately around it, forming a pendant. These rings are kept in position by being locked within the mass of the filling-in of the haunches above. The under sides of these stones, which were, no doubt, roughly dressed before being put in position, were carved into rings of cusped and ribbed mouldings, each little cusp having its own small pendant.