The Cave architecture expanded a lot during the Buddhist period (3rd century BC). Its finest specimens can be found in the hills of the western coast where the quality of the rock made them suitable for excavation. The caves, mostly in groups, were independent monastic establishment with rooms for monks to live ,and temples where the Buddha was worshipped The great cave at Karla is probably the finest of the cave temples. Massive in size, its interior illuminated by soft light from a large window brings in the feeling of generosity and peace in the mind of the visitor. The sculpture, comprising human couples, is characterized by free rhythm, grace and elegance. The Hindus developed Cave architecture in a later period and the great cave temples at BADAMI, ELEPHANTA and ELLORA are outstanding monuments. The MAHESMURTI of ELEPHANTA near Mumbai, representing Shiva in his three aspects of Creator, Preserver and Destroyer, has been declared by many people as the finest and extravagant single piece of Indian sculpture. The great Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock temples of ELLORA strive with one another in brilliance and size, and the most incredible being the KAILASH TEMPLE belonging to the 8th century. Entirely made out of a rock, it has the appearance of a small man-made mountain.
The Golden Age of Indian art -The Gupta Period
The Temple sculptures reached near perfection in the Gupta period (AD 320-495) and this era was known as "The Golden Age of Indian Art". But, the temple architecture was yet to be developed. The figures of Gods and Goddesses carved during this period have liveliness and grace and are immersed in spiritual feeling. In the DASAVATRA TEMPLE at Deogarh, Hindu iconography was given a form which it possesses even to this day. Fine images of Hindu deities as well as Buddhist and Jain pantheons are found in the country’s museums.
