| Origins |
- Rooted in the Karnataka Dravidian architectural tradition, with its beginnings in the 7th century under the Badami Chalukya patronage.
- Flourished during the Hoysala dynasty’s rule in the 13th century.
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| Temple-Centric Creations |
- Hoysalas were prolific builders of Hindu temples, dedicating their architectural prowess to deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and various forms of the Goddess.
- Star-shaped ground plans with symmetrically arranged shrines are common.
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| Primary Building Material |
- Soapstone, also known as chloritic schist, was the primary material used.
- Offering a pliable canvas for intricate carvings and detailing.
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| Carvings |
- Hoysala temples are renowned for their exceptionally detailed and ornate carvings.
- Carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, celestial beings, deities, animals, and intricate geometric patterns.
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| Distinctive Features |
- Makartorana, mantapa (both open and closed), circular pillars with sculpted figures and Sthambha buttalikas, vimana with intricate exteriors, shrine variety (ekakuta, dvikuta, etc.), kalasa crowning, salabhanjika, kirtimukh.
- Extensive depiction of Hindu mythology, live panels featuring various subjects, stellate shrine shapes, occasional erotic sculptures influenced by the Sakta tradition.
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| Influence of Chola and Chalukya Art |
- Western Chalukyan influence, seen in pillar images known as “Sthambha buttalikas.”
- Integration of Chola art, exemplified by the image of Mohini on a pillar in the Chennakeshava temple.
- Hoysala artists adorned both pillar surfaces and tops.
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