Structural Temples of Gujarat

SR No.: 006728
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Kantilal F Sompura
Publisher: Gujarat University Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1968
Total Pages: 868
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 31 MB

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The Structural Temples of Gujarat attached with pilasters have sculptures of some of the principal incarnations of Vişņu such as the Varāha, Vāmana, Rāma, Balarāma, Nộisimha, Krisna etc.
The threshold contains a semi-circular step with a pattern of tree in the centre flanked by two birds, In front of the step there is a carved slab containing a conch pattern on either side which is in its turn flanked by grāsa moulding.
The dedicatory block contains a Gaņeśa figure. Above the lintel there is a Navagraha panel superimposed by a series of grāsa mouldings with a creeper in their mouths.
The door frames of the Modhera temple are beautiful pieces of sculpture. Their jambs contain five sections each, the middle three are carved with figures of Gods and Goddesses. The central section on either side has a vertical panel of four niches adorned with stepped out pyramidal superstructural ornament. These niches contain sculptures of god (Sürya ) repeated over and over again surrounded by dancers and amorous couples carved on either section. These three projecting sections are each superimposed by a vase and foliage capital with grāsa pattikā over it. The sections on the wall side have vertical series of amorous figures while those on the opening of the door are carved with the creeper and flower design.
At the base there are standing human figures, on the right the figure though defaced seems to be a male Dvārpāla, with his male and female attendants on the left, the female Dvārpāl (Dvārpālikā) with her female attendants. Below this panel and touching to the surface of threshold there are sculptures of Gaņeśa with his consorts and female attendants on left, and of Siva with his consort and female attendants on right. Gaņeśa and Śiva are in sitting postures. The amorous couples on the threshold and the dedicatory image are completely destroyed. 6. AANG. Plts. LI-LII.