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The Shyama Raya Temple in Bishnupur, West Bengal, is one of the best examples of terracotta architecture. Built of brick, its exterior and interior are clad with high quality, densely sculpted terracotta panels. The temple has a square plan with porches on four sides. Each side has a three-arch entrance.
Bishnupur, 150 kilometres west of Kolkata, was the capital of the Malla dynasty, which ruled over a very small region until the eighth century but expanded and became powerful in the 16th century during the reign of King Birhan Bir. The Bhakti preacher Chaitanya's influence resulted in the construction of many temples dedicated to Krishna. The architecture also reflects a heavy Islamic influence.
Also see: A yen for India
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