Abstract:
The prominence of terracotta as a building material in Bengal is well justified by its
geographical location. The architectural knowledge system associated with terracotta can be
comprehended in the typology of the built structures as they act as texts to interpret the
knowledge. The history of Bengal has witnessed the influence of several rulers in developing
the architectural vocabulary of the region. This metamorphosis of the architectural
knowledge systems in the region includes the Bhakti movement, the Islamic influence, and
the British rule which led to the evolution of the use of terracotta from decorative elements
to structural elements in present-day context. This thesis intends to develop an
understanding about terracotta as a building material, its use in a built structure, the
common problems associated with terracotta construction and the techniques of
maintenance, repair, and conservation. This thesis also explores the size, shape, and
geometry of the material and its varied use in temples in the region. The significance of the
surviving temples lies in the uniqueness of the Bengal Temple Architecture as compared to
the temples in northern India. They represent the tastes and refinement of the patrons of that
period and also their love for terracotta art. The use of terracotta as a surface embellishment
material with brick or laterite stone being the structural framework was concentrated
majorly to the religious structures. Majority of terracotta temple structures in the districts of
West Bengal lie in neglect and unprotected. More focus is given to the temple town of
Bishnupur in context to protection, tourism promotion, whereas there are many other towns
which have the potential to develop a tourist destination.
It also takes into note that the use of terracotta was concentrated majorly to religious
structures and not in the settlements of the common people. And the architectural style of
temples and mosques of Bengal is hugely influenced by the houses of the common.
