In the field of rock-cut architecture, the remarkable Buddhist monuments were built in the Indian States of Bihar and Maharashtra. The Buddhist monks enlarged and altered the caves in the hillside, and also excavated the great and extraordinary prayer halls and monasteries out of huge cliffs. Despite the use of the rock-cut mode, the plan and elevation of these caves closely resemble the earlier brick and wood buildings. The monk architects who carved the caves introduced windows, balconies and huge arch-shaped openings. They also added a unique distinction to the Indian traditional architecture. The Rock - Cut Architecture is a unique addition to the Indian art.
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.
The Bronze Sculpture of the Cholas
Starting during the late Pallava period, the bronze sculpture reached heights of glory during the Chola rule. The image of Nataraja (the Lord of Dance) is a superb masterpiece of the Chola bronze sculpture. The grandeur of its conception, its symbolism, its artistic excellence and its charm have impressed connoisseurs throughout the world. There are many images of Nataraja in different dance poses. The bronze sculptures were one of the most significant contributions of the Cholas to Indian art.
