KOLHAPUR - MAHALAKSHMI

The construction of the great complex is mortarless and resembles closely that of temple structures of the early medieval period of the Deccan, Vertical offsets and numerous horizontal moldings create a rich shade and light pattern. This effect is greatly enhanced by exquisite figure sculpture. Female figurines in various graceful dancing poses, figures of musicians playing flutes, lutes and drums, constitute the majority of the figures, Images of mythological persons and gods and goddesses are also seen. A number of these sculptures are modern plaster or stone replacements of older ones disfigured or destroyed by the Moslem rulers of the land. These replacements, however. are faithful to the original in form and spirit and the difference between the extant originals and the later additions is hardly visible. The shikhars of the shrines are in brick and mortar, and are devoid of decoration of any sort whatever. They belong to the nineteenth century. This renovation of the shrine keeps harmony with the older structure.

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