Studies in Ancient Hindu Polity (Based on the Arthashastra of Kautilya), Vol. I c10.s1.43

c10.s1.43

² V. Smith's *Hist. of Fine Art*, p. 18: “Abundant evidence establishes the fact that Indian architects before the time of Asoka built their superstructures chiefly of timber, using brick almost exclusively for foundations and plinths. No deficiency in dignity or grandeur was involved by the use of the more perishable material.” The present excavations at Pāṭaliputra are leading to the discovery of many wooden structures, *e.g.* pillars, platforms, etc. We are anxiously awaiting a corroboration of our views on this point by such findings.