Indian Sculpture c9.49

c9.49

The importance of the topographical element was not only considerable to the mind of the craftsman (note 34). Ancient Indian geography is very definite about the various provinces, etc. Geographical distinctions are valid throughout for Indian sculpture. The topographical element is furthermore maintained, and not only horizontally on the surface of the earth, but also vertically with regard to the various regions. These are elaborated mythically and—what matters most—with regard to the levels of consciousness. Of the mythical and vertically situated localities the seven strata of the earth, the seven and more hells, the six Kāmāvacaraka Devalokas and Brahmā- loka may be mentioned (Marshall, *Guide to Sāñcī*, p. 63; Coomaraswamy, *Early Indian Architecture, Eastern Art*, Vol. III, p. 209, Fig. 21). Re āyatanas (spheres) of unbounded space of infinite intellection, etc., cf. C. A. F. Rhys Davids, *Buddhist Psychology*, p. 71.