1853.] Notes on the Ruins at Mahdbalipuram. 657 



ness, it seems to be peculiarly affected by the sea air. This was 

 remarked by Mr. Chambers in 1772 and 1776. " All these figures 

 are doubtless much less distinct, than they were at first ; for on com- 

 paring these, and the rest of the sculptures that are exposed to the 

 sea air, with others at the same place whose situation has afforded 

 them protection from it, the difference is striking ; the former being 

 every where much defaced, while the others are fresh, as if recently 

 finished ;" and it is necessary to bear in mind this characteristic, 

 when discussing the antiquity either positive or comparative, of any 

 portion of these edifices. 



The greater part of these temples are excavations, after the 

 fashion of Ellora and Elephanta ; superior in taste and symmetry, 

 though far inferior in dimensions, to the first named. The most 

 perfect and beautiful is in a narrow ravine, towards the northern 

 part of the range, and facing to the West ; whereby it has been 

 well protected from the effects of the sea air. Although small in its 

 dimensions, it is remarkable for its artistic merit : the columns in 

 particular are slender and most graceful; the pedestals couchant 

 tigers facing outwards ; the capitals elegant and well proportioned, 

 though fashioned in a style unknown among the orders of Grecian 

 architecture. Mr. Chambers remarks on its sculpture that " the 

 figures of idols in high relief on its walls are very well finished, and 

 perfectly fresh." Another appears to have been dedicated to Siva, 

 who is represented, in the middle compartment, of large stature and 

 with four arms. A small figure of Brahma is on his right ; Siva 

 with his consort Parvati on the left ; and his left foot rests on a 

 bull couchant. At one end of the temple, is a gigantic figure of 

 Vishnoo sleeping on a Cobra-di-capello, with several heads so dis- 

 posed as to form a canopy above the god. At the opposite end 

 appears Sivani, in the character of Doorga, with eight arms, mounted 

 on a lion ; opposed to her is a gigantic figure with a human body 

 and buffalo's head, much resembling that which is elsewhere called 

 the Yum raja; between them is a human figure suspended head 

 downwards, apparently the object of their dispute : and the monster 

 brandishes a club, while the goddess is armed with various weapons 

 and accompanied by some dwarf attendants. 



Mr. Goldingham remarks, " The figure and action of the goddess 



