Kahjuraho. Kandariva Mahadeo Temple

The sculptural styles of the north differ from those of the south markedly and also stand in contrast to each other, depending on the region from which they come. The decorational system of the Kandariva Mahadeo Temple makes use of an elegantly elongated type of figure in several subjects: single figures of celestial maidens, maithuna (loving) couples, single images of deities, and lions. There is a marked development in the ribbon ornament which in the present version makes great use of the play between light and deep shadow. this motif is seen above and below the figured panels in our slide. The surface of the stone, not carved with figures or the ribbon motif, has been cut deeply with tendrils and scrollwork patterns, as if imitating the finest wood carving - which, in practice, it is. This type of decoration is very useful in many areas of the tower in preserving flat architectural surfaces between the figured panels. -- Detail of west side: sculptures