|
|
In the temple architecture of India,
the Khajuraho complex remains unique.
These temples were built during the
Chandella period, a dynasty which survived for five centuries
before falling to the onslaught of Islam. Almost all the temples
date from one century long burst of creative genius from 950 -
1050 AD.
The carvings on the temples of Khajuraho
signify the union of the physical self and the soul with the Divine.
Of the 85 original temples, 22 still remain in their erotic splendour.
Externally the temples consist of successive waves of higher &
higher towers culminating in the soaring "Shikara" which
tops the sanctum. While the lower towers may be pyramid shaped,
the Shikkara is taller & curvilinear. The ornate design of
all these vertical elements is balanced by an equally ornate horizontal
element from the bands of sculpture that run around the temples.
Although the sculptures are superbly developed in their own right,
they are also a carefully integrated part of the overall design.
|
|
|