Title
Steps to Water: The Ancient Stepwells of India,New
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From the fifth to the nineteenth centuries, the people of western India built stone cisterns to collect the water of the monsoon rains and keep it accessible for the remaining dry months of the year. These magnificent structuresknown as stepwells or stepped pondsare much more than utilitarian reservoirs. Their latticelike walls, carved columns, decorated towers, and intricate sculpture make them exceptional architecture., while their very presence tells much about the region's ecology and history. For these past 500 years, stepwells have been an integral part of western Indian communities as sites for drinking, washing, and bathing, as well as for colorful festivals and sacred rituals. Steps to Water traces the fascinating history of stepwells, from their Hindu origins, to their zenith during Muslim rule, and eventual decline under British occupation. It also reflects on their current use, preservation, and place in Indian communities. In stunning color and quadtone photographs and drawings, Steps to Water reveals the depth of the stepwells' beauty and their intricate details, and serves as a lens on these fascinating cultural and architectural monuments.
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- Q: What is the main focus of 'Steps to Water: The Ancient Stepwells of India'? A: The book focuses on the history and architectural significance of stepwells in western India, highlighting their cultural importance from the fifth to the nineteenth centuries.
- Q: Who is the author of the book? A: The author of 'Steps to Water' is Morna Livingston.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is available in hardcover binding.
- Q: How many pages does the book contain? A: The book contains a total of 208 pages.
- Q: What is the condition of the book? A: The item condition of the book is listed as acceptable.
- Q: When was 'Steps to Water' published? A: The book was published on May 1, 2002.
- Q: What are stepwells and why are they significant? A: Stepwells are stone cisterns built to collect monsoon rainwater. They are significant for their intricate architecture and role in the daily lives and rituals of communities in western India.
- Q: Does the book include photographs or illustrations? A: Yes, 'Steps to Water' includes stunning color and quadtone photographs and drawings that showcase the beauty and details of stepwells.
- Q: What historical periods does the book cover regarding stepwells? A: The book covers the history of stepwells from their Hindu origins, their peak during Muslim rule, to their decline under British occupation.
- Q: Is this book suitable for someone interested in architecture or history? A: Yes, the book is well-suited for readers interested in architecture, history, and cultural studies, providing insights into the architectural and ecological significance of stepwells.