The Ancient and Medieval Architecture of India: A Study of Indo-Aryan Civilisation c11.23

c11.23

In pillars or piers intended for structural support and built up of three or more pieces, the capital, shaft, and base are all primarily structural forms, and the decoration should not impair, but rather emphasise, the structural functions of each part. This principle was fully recognised by Indian craftsmen in applying their religious symbolism to the forms of structural supports. Fig. 21 shows the type of capital and base which appears in Asokan buildings; the structural and decorative elements in it, derived from the lotus flower and fruit, and from the sacrificial waterpot, prevailed in various combinations throughout the classic period of Indian architecture.