from my own observation, or to repeat the exaggerated reports, which
others even relate with diffidence, might equally subject me to the
imputation of extravagant fiction.
The shell, or covering of the pyramid, which constitutes the exterior
of the mausoleum, is a structure, when viewed at some distance, of considerable
magnitude and beauty. It stands upon the side of a rocky
hill, and is very conspicuously situated, towering high above the
greater part of the monastery. The architecture must not be criticised
by scientific rules, for the different orders, as adopted in Europe, appear
to be entirely unknown in Tibet, where- they seem rätherntö
have chosen the use of a mixed kind. The pillar, scolloped arch, and
pediment of Asia, or Hindostan, prevail in the interior apartments J
the external decorations are of Chinese, or Tartar origin, similar to
those of the watch tower, or temple of the former; the tented canopy
and imperial dragon. As for as the mason has been concerned, it is
a plain substantial building of stone; with cement. It is longer in
front than in depth, and considerably more lofty than either.
The walls are built so much thicker at the base, as to give them a
very perceptihle slope. The centre of the building has a very* large
window above the portico, furnished with curtains of black mohair. The
walls, in various parts, are ornamented with circular representations
either of the sun, or foil moon, and with gilded crescents. Above the
window runs a headband all round of a deep garnet colour. Higher
than this headband, in the centre of the front, within a tablet, the
mystic sentence, Oom maunee paimee oom, is inscribed, in large golden
characters. A blank interval then succeeds, and over that, a. space of