Pp.88, Introduction by Prof. Pramod Chandra, Professor of Indian Art, Harvard University

 

It deals with the vertically rising 'Skambha' (Pillar) and the spherically spreading 'Stupa', the two basic constituents of Indian Architecture. AKC defines their symbolism which went into the making of their art through the ages, beginning with the Rgvedic period. Without this symbolism, e.g. Architectural Representation of the World Creation, or the 'Ekastambha' (Unitary Pillar) representation of the World Sustenance through the Sun's daily journey, the traditional Indian Arts have no meaning.

Commaraswamy deals with the faiths and beliefs of the People, which are metaphysical in essence, as primarily as he dealt with the physical forces and urges of the situation and it is only by this study that Indian Art can be understood.

Chapters :

1. Architectural Representation of the World Creation
2. Meaningfulness of the Traditional Art
3. World Roof and its Eye

Bibliography of Coomaraswamy's Works on Indian Architecture