The Hindu Temple v2.c12.51

v2.c12.51

Although this doorway has none of the synthesis of parts, none of the rhythm which connects, unifies and elevates the spectacle of this iconostasis to the high level of realisation on which the image, the seat of divinity, is beheld (as for example the entrance into the sanctuary of the Lakṣmaṇa Temple, Khajuraho) it is simple in its proportions and clearly parcelled out. The main parts of the surround of the door are : the high threshold; the lower part of the jambs with the large images; the upper part of the antepagments with the compartments of small figures, the lintel and the overdoor. The opening of the door is equal in width to each of the jambs and this being equal to the height of the large figure groups at the bottom of the door, the height of the door is twice its width. In such pure proportions are also parcelled out the minor units of the compositions,—the three shrines of Sūrya—on the lintel, and their inter-spaces, etc. The various planes' with their carvings between the powerful ovolo moulding of the outer surround and the flat innermost frame of the door with their changing shades redeem the all too regular lay out. The contrast moreover, of the modelled shapes which preponderate, with a linear type of carving in which dark shadows are set in flat tracery (door frame; lowermost fillet of base; pillars, etc.) adds richness but does not, in this particular instance, intensify the effectiveness of the display.