Indian Palaeography c13.s2.t1.13

c13.s2.t1.13

In the Kshatrapa inscriptions (Pl. VI *a*, *b*) the verticals are drawn in the new style, and even the curvature is affected by the use of the new pen. The thickness varies with the twist of the pen, e.g. *a*, *ā*, *cha*, *chha*, *sa*, *ḍa*, *ta*, *bha*, *ya*, *la*, *ha*, and *ra*. Then we find the equalization of the verticals, except in *la* which has a tall flourish. Angularity is a marked feature in letters such as *kha*, *gha*, *ja*, *ṭa*, *pa*, *pha*, the lower circle of *ma*, *ya*, the lower circle of *va*, *sha*, *sa*, and *ha*. Both *ga* and *śa* develop a beautiful curve. *Chha* has optionally an ellipse, but more usually a double loop. The lower half of *ḍa* shows curvature, and the two strokes of *ta* are also joined in a curve. *Ra* has both the serpentine form and the straight vertical; the latter has its lower end bent to the left. The medial *i* has a tall curved flourish, and the medial *o* in the case of *mo* is attached optionally to the middle of the letter, as is known from the Girnar R.E. of Aśoka, while in *po* and *gho* two upward slanting strokes are attached to the left vertical—a practice which became common in the next period.