The Beginnings of Buddhist Art and Other Essays in Indian and Central-Asian Archaeology c7.41

c7.41

If at the point at which we have now arrived we cast a general glance over the gate which is the particular object of our studies, we shall be as surprised as any one to observe that we are beginning to understand its mute language. There is now scarcely a part of it whose meaning or intention escapes us, from the genii which mount guard at the foot to the Buddhist symbols which decorate the summit. We may, therefore, consider that we have accomplished the bulk of our task, and I shall confine myself in conclusion to endeavouring to unite your impressions : this will be the best way of summing up the various kinds of interest which these sculptures may present.