1-6: Architecture and Art of Southern India | George Michell (1995) – A Rich Exploration of South Indian Visual Culture | Volume I: The Mughals and their contemporaries | The New Cambridge History of India

Architecture and Art of Southern India | George Michell (1995)

Published in 1995 as part of Volume I: The Mughals and Their Contemporaries in The New Cambridge History of India series, George Michell's Architecture and Art of Southern India presents a comprehensive, well-illustrated, and scholarly examination of the varied architectural and artistic practices of South India from the fourteenth to the seventeenth century.
Even though the North's Mughal influence often overshadows dialogues regarding Indian art history, Michell draws attention to the distinctive regional styles from the South, which include the Vijayanagara, Nayaka, and Deccan Sultanate traditions.

Book Overview

Geographic and Historical Scope
George Michell centers his analysis on Southern India, which encompasses:

• Karnataka (with a focus on Hampi/Vijayanagara)
• Tamil Nadu
• Andhra Pradesh
• Kerala
• Deccan territories influenced by Islamic sultanates

The period covered includes:

• The latter Hoysala era
• The ascendance and decline of the Vijayanagara Empire (c. 1336–1565)
• The governance of the Nayakas
• The rise of Islamic sultanates in the Deccan

Key Themes and Content

Vijayanagara Architecture and Urbanism

• Hampi, recognized as the capital of Vijayanagara, is depicted as both a sacred and royal center.
• It emphasizes urban design, grand gateways (gopurams), and granite-based temples.
• Highlights religious edifices like the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Hazara Rama Temple.
• Investigates the synthesis of Dravidian temple architecture with royal stylistic influences.

Temple Sculpture and Iconography

• Investigates how sculptures conveyed mythological narratives, divinities, and royal imagery.
• Focus is placed on both Shaivite and Vaishnavite traditions, as well as lesser deities and folk symbolism.
• Assesses carved pillars, mandapas, and ceremonial chariot displays.

Deccan Sultanate Influence

• Despite being under Islamic rule, the Deccan region exhibited cultural blending within its architecture.
• Features structures from Bijapur, Gulbarga, and Bidar, showcasing Persian-Islamic architectural elements.
• Illustrates the collaboration between Hindu and Muslim artisans, merging diverse stylistic traits.

Nayaka Temples and Expansion

• Following the decline of Vijayanagara, Nayaka rulers upheld architectural practices.
• They created intricate gopurams, temple tanks, and halls for festivals.
• Significant temples include Meenakshi Temple (Madurai) and Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangam).

Cultural Symbolism and Patronage

• Michell delves into how rulers and aristocrats supported temples as a means to demonstrate legitimacy and devotion.
• Art and architecture functioned as instruments of political expression, religious faith, and cultural identity.

Why This Book Is Significant

• Addresses a critical void in Indian art history by rightfully spotlighting the South.
• Presents a nuanced perspective on both Hindu and Islamic architectural innovations.
• Incorporates images, maps, and diagrams to enhance visual understanding.
• Ideal for academics, students, and those captivated by Indian architecture.

About the Author: George Michell

George Michell stands as a foremost authority on South Indian architecture, boasting decades of field research. He has produced extensive work on temple architecture, Hampi, and Deccan Sultanates, earning acclaim for his ability to merge scholarly depth with clear, engaging writing.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Students of art and architecture
• Researchers focusing on South Indian history
• Scholars studying Hindu and Islamic visual traditions
• Visitors exploring Hampi, Madurai, or temples in Tamil Nadu
• Civil service examinees (e.g., CSS, UPSC, PCS)
• Anyone interested in the artistic diversity of India’s various regions