History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c31.7

v1.c31.7

After the foundation was laid to the required depth taking into account the nature of the subsoil and the ground as well as the total load and dimensions of the proposed edifice, the structural frame was built with hearting stones. These were simple dressed blocks, laid dry, one upon or against the other in staggered courses after breaking the joints, so that their rough surfaces coming in mutual contact interlocked and held together without the risk of sliding. These courses were compacted largely by their weight and balance and were often also jointed by stone-pins or iron-dowels.