Nabaratna and Shiva Temples of Sirajganj District in Bangladesh: A Study on Structure, Style, Motifs and Ornamentation

Rifat Ur Rahman

Abstract:

This study explored the aesthetics sense of the decoration, artistry, style, motifs and ornamentation of impeccable aesthetic structures of the Nabaratna and Shiva temples at Hatikumrul of the Sirajganj district. Nabaratna is one of the most significant temples in Bangladesh, is located at Hatikumrul in the Sirajganj district, and was built during the 1704-1728 AD. The architectural style of this temple is very aesthetic and full of medieval art. Another studied temple is a Shiva temple located 200 meters southwest of the Nabaratna temple. Both primary and secondary sources have been used to comprehend the timeline, architectural characteristics, ornamentation and current perspective of these temples. The proper documentation of aesthetic terracotta plaques has also been carried out. The photographs using in the present study were taken in different view. The Shiva temple is decorated with a variety of terracotta plaques. Terracotta plaque is known as one of the oldest examples of human civilization. The development of this ancient artwork found in the Indian subcontinent and many ancient civilizations globally. Since stone and metal are scarce in Bangladesh, perhaps the craftsmen used the soil for many purposes to built diverse structures and artwork in this region. The easy availability of clay in this region might have played a significant role in developing the art and structure. Artisans in the region depicted mythological character, flora and fauna motifs by baked soil, creating aesthetic structures and diverse terracotta plaques. These arts were undoubtedly developed through sophisticated rhythm, richly decorated and architectural composition.

Keywords:

Art, Aesthetic, Craftsmanship, Temple, Terracotta

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