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

Page 508

The Accessories of the Temple-Complex
453 The extant toraņa consists of two pillars that support a richly carved architrave, over which is a pediment in the shape of a triangular arch. This springs from makara-mouths and rests on four smaller columns. A torana semi-circular in shape, once adorned the inside of the pillars. It sprang from elephant brackets and touched the soffit.
The bases of the pillars, in comparison to ordinary ones, are much broader. Each base consists of several plinths and a Kumbhí cut into series of facets. The shaft is circular which is superimposed by a capital adorned with pendant leaves and a bracket. Above this is the short shaft with a sur-capital and a bracket which supports the architrave. This is sculptured with minute figures. Above the architrave each makara bracket contains figures.
The toranas at Vadanagar16 are the best preserved examples of the Kirtitoraņa architecture in Gujarat.
Both are identical in size and style.
The plinth of the torana-pillars is simple, having a decoration of lozenges only. After this follow in order the padma, kaņí, kirtimukhas, gajathara, narathara and sculptured kumbhi. Then, torus, 'drip' projction and a kirtimukha band. After this a panelled figure on each face of the pillar, placed under a richly carved canopy. Over this, after an octagonal band are corbel projections, which support on the inside a 'griffin' and from the mouths of the makaras springs the semi-circular arch; on the outside, round the shaft of the sur-capital are three standing figures, one on each side; over this is a short shaft, surmounted with a capital and bracket, This supports the architrave from which springs
15 AANG. Plt. LVII, LIX, Here Figs. 214/F, 214/K. When, Burgess gave the account there stood two torņas (see plt. LVII. AANG.) At present one is standing in tact while other has fallen to pieces which are lying on the ground.