Since
ancient times, marble is the best choice to craft statues and sculptures. These
sculptures are not just durable but stylish and elegant as well. In the world
of art, sculptures made up of marble enjoy a unique place. Every state of the
country has the art of stone sculpting in it. Most of the marble sculptures of
India are dedicated to the religious purposes. A number of idols and statues of
deities are crafted from marble. Also carvings of architecture are made out of
marble. All the artwork of marble sculptures holds the excellence of the
patterns and style of best craftsmanship and exhibits great quality.
Marble
Sculptures of Ancient and Medieval India
The
art of the mosaic inlay work was known to Indians even before the advent of the
Mughals. Also, this art was widely prevalent in the country before Mughals
started making use of this art. Temples of India house this art in form of
partially or entirely carved marble patterns on walls and ceilings. From time
to time, the frames of the doors and windows are also found carved in marble
with floral patterns or other elaborate designs in temples. Dilwara Jain
temples in Mount Abu, Rajasthan deserve a special mention here. These aesthetic
temples are carved matchlessly in marble. It is noteworthy that the art work of
these temples lay stress on enshrine of many Jain Tirthankaras. Constructed of
a white marble from Arasoori Hill; these temples are regarded as an exceptional
example of Jain temple architecture.
These
temples include a total of five shrines. Four of them are architecturally
momentous. All the shrines are constructed out of white marble. A number of
petite shrines can be seen around the huge courtyard of temples. Attractive
images of Tirthankaras are displayed in every shrine. A series of pillars
carved gracefully accompany them and add sumptuousness to the opening of the
courtyard. It is said that this art work was fashioned during 11th and 13th
centuries AD. Later, several Hindu temples were made up of marble. Sacred
symbols or sophisticated design ornament the interior part of these temples.
Stupa of Sanchi constructed by Asoka is superbly popular. It has four gateways
that were intricately carved in marble. There are two pillars carved
beautifully. They wear the tiara of carved dwarfs, elephants and lions. It is
from these lions that the national emblem of India came into being.
Marble
Sculptures of Mughal India
From
the annals of history, it is seen that the knack of stone sculpting in marble
reached the pinnacle during the reign of the Mughals. Especially, the reign of
Shah Jahan is renowned for the achievements regarding monumental architecture.
Most significant change in architecture was initiated by Shah Jahan as he made
use of marble in construction of monuments. Therefore, use of marble is
commonly found in the palaces and temples of Rajasthan.
The
structure of Red Fort in red stone was replaced by marble buildings like the
Diwan-i-Khas, the Diwan-i-Am and the Moti Masjid. Also, the black marble
pavilion at the Shalimar Gardens in Srinagar and a white marble palace in Ajmer
were built.
Other
than the carvings of marble, you will also appreciate the complexity of inlay
work in marble done on scores of architectural monuments that Mughals
constructed. These monuments included buildings within Red Fort of Agra and the
most celebrated Taj Mahal.
The
illustrious Taj Mahal is entirely made up of white marble. Its wonderfully
white walls are engraved with beautiful and delicate ornamentations of inlay
work of stone. This splendid work is also seen on the palaces and tombs of
Mughals. Etmatuddaula tomb which is of Nur Jahan’s father was built by Nur
Jahan in white marble between 1622 and 1628.
Marble
sculptures of India offer an articulate quick look of noticeably eye-catching
and versatile style of artistic craftsmanship and designs. The best marbles
used for sculpting don’t have stains. But you can see some of natural stains in
the sculpture, which are incorporated into the sculpture with great dexterity.
कोई टिप्पणी नहीं:
एक टिप्पणी भेजें