Friezes depicting elephants, lions and horses as the first three layers of the lower exterior of the Hoysaleshwara temple in Halebid. The animals signify a strong foundation for the temple and the immortal hold it will have on public memory. Layers into the middle exterior of the structure signify a society built on the edifices of martial valour and discipline in the battlefield, artistic freedom, strong administration, appreciation of beauty and nobility as signified by the peacock and excellence in the performing arts.