The Antiquities of Orissa v1.c9.42.1

v1.c9.42.1

**Sculpture** : The great strength of the architects, however, lies in the most sumptuous floral scrolls which they have designed on all their leading bands or fascias. They are as well designed, as skilfully executed, and they reflect the highest credit on the artistic taste and ingenuity of the designers. In arranging them on the temples, the main object of ornament has been very carefully borne in mind, and their disposition appears the most appropriate. Instead of forcing architecture to subserve the purpose of “a mere frame-work for the setting of delicate sculpture”, the latter has everywhere been made to retain its subordinate position as ornament designed to set off the former. It certainly is in some places very florid, elaborate, and over-crowded, but still it appears subordinated to an end and not rendered itself the end. The diversities in the style, character, proportions and arrangements of these sculptured scrolls are so great, that it is scarcely possible to do more here than point out a few of the leading characterstic varieties. Their general outline is often alike, a winding or undulating scroll, enclosing more or less rounded spaces for flowers, leaves and animals. The flowers and foliage are of various kinds, and some of them are evidently fanciful, for they cannot be compared to anything living that I know of. Illustration, No. 11, is a characteristic specimen of a carved scroll.