In Hoysala art Hardy identifies two conspicuous departures from the more austere Western (Later) Chalukya art:ornamental elaboration and a profusion of iconography with figure sculptures, both of which are found in abundance even on the superstructure over the shrine. Their medium, the soft chlorite schist (Soapstone) enabled a virtuoso carving style. Hoysala artists are noted for their attention to sculptural detail be it in the depiction of themes from the Hindu epics and deities or in their use of motifs such as "yali", "kirtimukha" (gargoyles), aedicula (miniature decorative towers) on pilaster, "makara" (aquatic monster), birds ("hamsa"), spiral foliage, animals such as lions, elephants and horses, and even general aspects of daily life such as hair styles in vogue.