Originally published in 1947, The Vertical Man explores a form of Indian sculpture largely ignored in other studies, with a focus on two kinds of sculpture from the province of Bihar.

The book provides detailed analysis of the formal characteristics of the sculpture and the influences of the myth, ritual, and context in which they were commissioned and made. It explains why the sculpture is regional and "why the styles are what they are". It is an original study which throws light on important subjects such as the relations of art and religion and of art and economics.

The Vertical Man will appeal to those with an interest in art, specifically sculpture and the art of the Indian countryside.