Pattadakal. Galagantha Temple. Late 7th Century A.D.

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Photographer: Arthur Llewellyn Basham

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Abstract

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It is instructive to examine another temple as an intermediary example of Indian architecture of the Hindus, which is not in the developmental line of the Kailasanaths or the Pallavan style of the south. This temple is almost contemporary with the next in our discussion (the Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal) and dates to about 735 A.D. It is, however, in a completely different style than the Virupaksha shrine in that it displays entirely northern elements in its construction. For example, a true sikhara tower surmounts this monument and possesses wall niches of a corresponding form. Verticality rather than horizontality is emphasised in this northern style which may be described as a cross between Dravidian (southern) and Aryavarta (Buddhist, pre-southern) forms. This combination is said to be the most characteristic of the Calukya style of Hindu building according to Dr. Coomaraswamy, foremost authority on Indian art. We would do well to remember its characteristic features as we discuss the next slides in this series, and as we enter the northern styles.

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Archives Series

Basham Collection

Date created

circa 1970s

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This item is provided for research purposes. Contact the Australian National University Archives at butlin.archives@anu.edu.au for permission to use.

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