Essay name: The Sculptures of Madan-Kamdev (Study)
Author:
Kamal Nayan Patowary
Affiliation: Gauhati University / Department of History
The essay critically studies the Sculptures of Madan-Kamdev: an archaeological site in Baihata Chariali, Kamrup, Assam (India) dating back to the 9th century A.D. The site features elegant sculptures in relief and round forms which are documented in Sanskrit texts like the Kalika Purana and Yogini Tantra.
Chapter 3 - Iconographic-sculptural study
31 (of 86)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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, 92 are some of the other physiognomical features this sculpture. The
nipple and navel are prominently exécuted as an aesthetic
technique which might have imbibed from highly sophisticated
Pala-Sena art tradition. An emphasis to depict a bulging abdomen
appeared to be executed in the form of two fat lobs of terracotta
type to the lower half of the abdomen. The sculpture also possessed
a stiff column like legs with slightly downward tapering tendency59
No sign of execution of knees are there to observe. Over an above,
a sense of elongation, specially the portion just below the chest,
grasp the entire composing outline of the sculpture. The way of
execution of the waist gridles, fingers abdomen etc have duly
highlighted an influence of an earth bound terracotta tradition.
However, this is not a phenomenal appearance. The
high profile plastic tradition of early medieval Assam has witnessed
number of instance in which existence of popular earth bound
trend has found active on the side of high profile aesthetic tradition
of that time. The production of this groups of sculptures is the
best serve example of this fact. M. Dutta has referred two prime
factors for the existence of this aesthetic trend that the temple
sculptures as well as architectural decors are always indigenously
produce; similarly, in erecting a temple the patronizer with his
limited option, have to employ both migrating and local artist and
An 11th century feature
� 59.
60.
Majumdar, R.C.: Op-cit, 1943, p.543.
A 10th century feature, Again this feature is applicable even to
the sculptures (probably) of 11th century A.D.
Bandopadhya, B. Op-cit, 1981, p.32 & Barpujari, H.K.(ed.) :
Op-cit, p.470.
