The Study of Universal Design and Cultural Elements Depicted in Queen’s Stepwell of Patan in Gujarat

Authors: Chatterjee S*

DOI: 10.23880/eoij-16000219

Volume 3, Issue 5

Abstract

Ancient Indian monuments always represent the combination of cultural and design attributes. Architectural marvels of the Patan stepwell in Gujarat state were studied, to look into the Cultural and Design tradition in India. The outer surfaces of the monuments were always decorated with intricate design to depict the cultural tradition of Ancient Indian lifestyle. The initial investigations showed that the artifacts are full of components of daily use, which reflects the concurrent evolution of rituals and style in that era and its growth in the subsequent periods. The ideal elements are seriously following all the artistic domain of Indian art and Indian philosophy. It represents a real panorama of life with all its weal and woes, transcending in a spiritual life of redemption through such magnificent sculptures on the panels and niche in the wall. Analytical observation of body shift and flexions from the central plumb line in Nāyikās figures are one of the key cultural design elements in the monument. Behind this project there was a deep sense of System Design which was formulated a step by step progression of the monument. The analytical study of the monument will reveal the Holistic Design Approach behind the monument. The vision and the unique concept of the stepwell also reflect the personality of the Queen Udayamatī of Solanki Dynasty, who was built this unique stepwell for mankind in 11th century AD. The UNESCO declared this stepwell as a world heritage site in 2014. This monument is a true sense of “Universal Design” and constantly inspiring the creative world in modern era.

Keywords: Spatial Flexion; Methodology of communication; Visual Culture; Postures and gestures; Art of Sculpture; Art of Fabrication; System Design

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