Author: M K Dhavalikar
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Year: 2011
Language: English
Pages: 104
ISBN/UPC (if available): 0195673891
Description
The cave temples at Ellora, excavated between the sixth and tenth centuries AD, are a fascinating showcase of the evolution of Indian sculptural art. Dedicated top three religions-Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism-the carved edifices combine soaring scale with intricate detail. They stand as testimony both of the mastery of the sculptors, as well as to the enduring power of a uniquely Indian aesthetic vision shaped by a long tradition of religious diversity.
This book provides a succinct overview of Ellora's historical background and discusses the development of the site in relation to religious contexts as well as architectural and artistic ones. The author examines the ways in which the ascendance of different religions in western India influenced the construction of cave temples and rock-cutting activity. A detailed description of the site, brought to life using numerous plans, maps and photographs, makes the book invaluable to all visitors to Ellora.
Written by an acknowledged expert on the Ellora caves, this accessible and readable book will be wel-comed by general readers as well as informed tourists interested in India's most famous cave temples.
REVIEW
The Monumental Legacy series aims at presenting a brief introduction to the major World Heritage (cultural) Sites in India. Written by authorities on the subject, they provide historical background, a detailed guide to the monuments, and an easy-to-follow glossary of various art and architectural terms that will enable general readers, tourists, and visitors to the sites to view the monuments in their proper perspective.