Indian Palaeography c15.s2.11

c15.s2.11

(ii) Pl. X. 3 is taken from the remaining inscriptions of Kumāra Gupta I, Skanda Gupta, and their successors, all of this period and found in this region. The plate is mainly based on the Bihar and Kahaum inscriptions of Skanda Gupta. This group of inscriptions carries the Kauśāmbī style further. The head-mark is distinctly triangular, though in a few cases it seems to be only notched. The initial vowels are of the same type as described in the above group (*b*) (i). We also find here the form of *e* which is triangular with its base at the bottom. The medial vowels follow the styles of both the Allahabad inscription and the Kushāṇa records. But specially noticeable is the form of medial *ā* in *dhā*, which is a curved sign attached to the middle of the right limb—a feature that recalls the practice of the eastern region. The medial *ṛi* now has a proper hook turned to the right. The medial *u* curves upward in the case of *gu* (optionally), *du*, and *bhu* (optionally). In the consonants the lower tips of the verticals show a faint trace of thickening, recalling the tendency to cursive flourish associated with the pen style. Other important developments from the style of the Allahabad inscription are seen in the greater use of the flat-topped *ga*, the straightening of the curved limb of *gha*, *pa*, and *sha*, the preference for *tha* with a mid-line within the oval form, *dha* with its lower end narrowed, the angular *bha* with a triangular head at the left limb, and the looped *sa* with an acute angle at the right limb. It should be noted that the oval *tha* is vertical when used singly and horizontal when used in a conjunct such as *sthā*.