Temple Architecture and Art of the Early Chalukyas: Badami, Mahakuta, Aihole, Pattadakal

The temples of the Early Chalukyas, dating from the 6th to 8th centuries, are unrivalled in all of India for their comparatively early date and unusually complete condition, the remarkable juxtaposition of their different constructional techniques and building styles, and for the sheer beauty of their figural and decorative carvings. In spite of their outstanding significance, these monuments have until now lacked a publication that does justice to their architecture and sculpture. This volume is the first to fully describe and illustrate the Early Chalukya temples in Badami, and nearby Mahakuta, Aihole and Pattadakal, all situated on or near to the Malprabha river in central Karnataka. Michell’s definitive text is complemented by more than 100 of his measured drawings taken from his PhD, which present the most thorough graphic documentation ever undertaken. These are accompanied by about 200 splendid, newly commissioned photographs by Surendra Kumar.

George Michell

George Michell trained as an architect in Melbourne, and then obtained a PhD in Indian Archaeology at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, with a dissertation on Early Chalukya temples. Since then he has undertaken numerous documentation and research projects, most recently with John M. Fritz at Hampi.

Surendra Kumar

Surendra Kumar, specialist in Southern Indian art photography, studied information technology in Bangalore. He now works as a photographer and focuses on panoramic topographic views.