The Hindu Temple v2.c11.s3.8

v2.c11.s3.8

The shape of this window is derived from the curves of light bending wood, such as bamboo or branches. The outer arch results from two branches being fixed at the bottom and their heads tied together at the top; an end piece of the arch marking the place of the conjoint ends of the branches; or, the extension acts as a prop for a carved symbol, such as a lotus flower which it carries on top; or the mask, called Kīrttimukha, covers it completely, widens the area of the extension and gather in its shape the total meaning of the arch (Pls. XLVI-VIII).⁵¹ The inner arch of the Gavākṣa has a continuous, round curve and is derived from one branch being fixed in the ground at both its ends.⁵² Where this double arch is part of the roof, the inner barrel shape as well as the gable arch are kept in position by a thong or withe; the tie-rod together with the arches were copied in heavy bent timber and ultimately in stone or brick; the arch, as a rule remains open at the bottom, the ‘tie-rod’ forming the base of the image within the Gavākṣa (Pls. XLVII-VIII).⁵³