Kahjuraho, Jain Temple: Paravanatha Temple, capital above doorway.
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Photographer: Arthur Llewellyn Basham
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This rather remarkable little figure in its serpentine pose is one of the atlante dwarf types commonly found in temple decoration, taking on a supportive role of [sic] portions of friezes, serving as a vehicle for a larger figure, or attempting to hold a lintel as a capital, as he does here. The atlante dwarfs were also deities, however, called guhyakas, and, despite this one's smug expression, all were benevolent spirits assisting in the protective roles of the Yakshas and Yakshis. In style, the figure is typical for this time in general and Jaina sculpture in particular, for the position of the dwarf utterly defies realism, yet one can see that this was done to serve a specific function: that being to 'hold' the lintel. Thus, the dwarf has two arms to raise and give support to the lintel, and two arms to casually place akimbo. His gestures and expression are effortless, regardless of the heavy load he appears to bear. This is one of the most charming elements of Jaina sculptural techniques.
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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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