An inscription in one of these states that it was produced during the reign
of Chandragupta II (382-401 AD ), thus dating these caves to 4-5 AD.
The caves possess all the distinctive features that gave Gupta art its unique
vitality, vigour nd richness of expression, the beautifully moulded capitals,
The treatment of the intercolomination, the design of the enterance way and
the system of continuing the architrave as a sting course round the structure.
Characterised by richly carved facades and doorways, the shrines are progressively
more spacious and more ornate. Cave No.9 is remarkable for its large cella and
massive, 8 feet high pillars, its long portico and pillared hall.
Throughout, there is evidence that the master craftsman of Besnagar Practised
their art with skill and artistry under the Guptas, four centuries later. Cave
No. 5 is awe- inspiring in the sheer magnificence of the vision of its builders;
here, a massive carving depicts Vishnu, in his Varaha (Boar) incarnation, holding
the earth goddess Prithvi aloft upon one tusk.
