Question

prepare a chart which classifies the different monuments on the basis of different dynasties​

Answer 1

1. Rock-Cut Examples:

i. Rock-Cut Mandapas, 650 C.E:

Interior:

This is an open pavilion excavated in rock takes the form of a columned hall consisting of one or more cells excavated in opposite side. These halls at Mamallapuram near the city of present day Chennai are ten in number and are found on the main hill. None of these Mandapas are large. Approximate dimensions are as follows. Width of façade is 7.5 metres and cella rectangular varying from 1.5 metres to 3 metres.

Exterior:

Exterior presents a façade formed of row of pillars. On the façade there is a roll cornice decorated with Buddhist chaitya-arch motif known as Kudu (Acroteria). The shape of chaitya-arch window is much reduced and converted into an object of decoration. Above is a parapet made of miniature shrines a longer one alternating with a shorter one. Images were carved in pilaster framed niches. In front of mandapa on one side a long narrow receptacle was made in the floor to keep water.

Pillars:

Pillars are the main decorative features. The shafts have chamfered octagonal section in the middle third. The capital is an immense and heavy bracket which is an imitation of wooden beam and bracket order. Pillars are 2.1 metres high and 0.30 metres to 0.60 metres in diameter.

Lion Pillars:

In the later examples the bottom part of the pillar is made into a sedent lion. The lion figure was reformed later into a heraldic beast and it occupied a most prominent place in Dravidian temples. The elements in the pillar are well united to produce a notable pillar order.

The features of the pillars are:

i. Fluted shaft (Sthambham)

ii. Refined necking (Tadi)

iii. Elegant ‘melon’ capital (Kumbha)

iv. Lotus form (Idaie) and wide abacus (Palagai)

Best Examples of Mandapas:

(i) Varaha Mandapa

(ii) Mahishasura Mandapa