Oriental Scenery/Part 6/Plates 22 and 23
Nos. XXII. and XXIII. Plans H.
VISWAKARMA.
The situation of this curious temple is marked by No. 13, in the third general view of the mountain. Viswakarma is considered by the Hindoos as the artist of the gods. This excavation seems to possess a greater variety in the design than any other to be met with in the whole range, a material difference appears in the semi-circular form of the ceiling, and in its height, which is thirty-five feet. The simplicity of the interior pillars and the large balcony in front are likewise different from any thing else to be seen in this mountain. There are two other grand excavations in this part of India, likewise with coved ceilings, but have, in other respects more resemblance to each other, than either of them to this; the one is at Echvera, near the top of the Bhore Ghaut, and the other on the island of Salsette. No. 1, The entrance into the area, 2. 3,3,3, The verandah round the area. 4,4,4,4, Dark rooms without sculpture. 5,5,5, Doorways into the temple, all round which there is a verandah, 8,8,8. 9, The idol Viswakarma sitting in front.
UPPER STORY.
The apartments on both sides are much decayed. 10, A large room which has had sculpture in it. 11, The balcony. 12,12, Figures in basso-relievo. 13,13, Gigantic male figures, each having two females standing by them. 14, A continuation of the balcony looking into the temple. 15, Two apartments unfinished to the left, and four dark rooms to the right, entered from the apartment with pillars, which is in a considerable state of decay.
Viswakarma.
Viswakarma, exterior view.