Banglar Terracota Mandir by Shrila Basu , Abhra Basu [Hardcover]

One of Bengal's important treasures is its terracotta temples. Mainly constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries, these temples are crucial for the study of Bengal's cultural history. Not just in Bishnupur or Kalna, but across South Bengal, countless extraordinary temples were built over nearly three centuries. These temples are enriched with diverse and abundant terracotta decorations. On one hand, they depict mythological gods and goddesses, as well as stories; on the other, they capture various aspects of both the lives of the elite and the common people. The decoration of these temples does not adhere to any conventional artistic theory. Its main elements come from various literary and social sources.

This book's primary aim is to explore the sources of these stories from literature and society, alongside the terracotta decorations of the temples. By combining the study of literature with art history—two interconnected subjects—the book makes a significant contribution to Bengali cultural studies. It also includes relevant images that will help in understanding the content more clearly.