The Colas c35.37

c35.37

‘The pyramidal *vimāna* above the sanctum rises in thirteen diminishing tiers until the width of its apex equals one-third of its base. ‘On the square platform thus formed stands the cupola, the inward curve of its neck producing a pleasing break in the otherwise rigid outlines of the composition, while the bulbous dome poised like a light but substantial globe is a fitting finish to its soaring character’ (Brown). The effect of the pyramid is enhanced by the studied manner of its treatment in which the vertical lines of the *pañjaras* are so intersected by the horizontal lines of the diminishing tiers as to produce ‘an architectural texture of great beauty.’ ‘Finally’, says Percy Brown, ‘there is the contrast of the rounded cupola at the summit, its winged niches on all four sides relieving the severity of the outline just where this is required. In erecting the *vimāna* on the principle of a pyramid its builders were on safe ground, for such a form not only conveys the impression of solid strength and stability, but is in reality the most permanent structural shape yet devised . . . Unquestionably the finest single creation of the Dravidian craftsmen, the Tanjore *vimāna* is also a touchstone of Indian architecture as a whole.’