Mysore and Coorg from the Inscriptions c12.1

c12.1

WORKS of art are chiefly exemplified in engraving, sculpture, and architecture. The specimens of engraving are those to be found in inscriptions. The finest examples are the Kadamba inscription on the Tālgunda pillar, and the Ganga and Hoysala inscriptions on stone slabs and copper plates. Most of the Hoysala inscriptions, in particular, are beautifully incised on polished slabs of black hornblende, and the contents are so skilfully engrossed that no space is left where a single additional character could be introduced. Ornamental flourishes and elegant fancy letters are used where suitable, and the whole presents an attractive appearance. Under the Chālukyas in 1067 is mentioned (Cd 47) an artistic engraver (*rūvāri*) who could entwine the forms of elephants, lions, parrots, and other animals so as to make them appear from the letters. In 1159, under the Hoysalas, is mentioned (Ak 141) a sculptor who within the space of a single page (of a *ōle* or palmyra leaf) wrote the whole of the *Gō-grahana* in the highest style so as to please every one.