Mauryan Art: Ashokan Pillars

Questions and Answers

What do the wheels on the freeze symbolize?

The physical journey of the Buddha

The cycle of reincarnation

The four noble truths

The Buddha's Law (correct)

Which animal is associated with the deity Surya?

Elephant

Horse (correct)

Brahmany bull

Lion

What is the significance of the Brahmany bull in the context of the text?

Represents the cycle of nature

Vehicle of the deity Indra

Symbol of the Buddha's teachings

Associated with the god Shiva (correct)

What does the frieze of water flowers and plants signify?

An important motif in later Buddhist art Signup and view all the answers

How does the treatment of the bull from Rampurva differ from ancient Near Eastern representations?

It lacks a sense of grandeur Signup and view all the answers

What are Yakshas or Yakshis associated with?

Buddhist rituals and representational art Signup and view all the answers

What material is specifically mentioned regarding the Parkham Yaksha sculpture?

Cream sandstone Signup and view all the answers

What influence is described in the sculptures produced under imperial patronage?

Persian influence Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant feature of the Yaksha iconography?

A prominent pouch or potbelly Signup and view all the answers

How does the Yakshi's left knee position compare to earlier styles?

It indicates a move towards a more relaxed and informal representation. Signup and view all the answers

What do the proportions of the Didarganj Yakshi emphasize?

Voluptuousness with large breasts and hips Signup and view all the answers

What historical context is suggested by the transition of Yaksha sculptures from wood to stone?

An advancement in sculptural techniques. Signup and view all the answers

What is noted about the condition of the Parkham Yaksha and the Besnagar Yakshi?

Their weathered condition enhances their archaic effect. Signup and view all the answers

What common elements can be seen in the treatment of the girdle and skirt between different Yakshi sculptures?

There are similarities in their headdress and treatment of girdle and skirt. Signup and view all the answers

What may have influenced the iconography of Yaksha sculptures during the period preceding Buddhism?

Indigenous traditions of monumental wood sculpture. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the female form is essential in Indian representational modes?

Suggesting life-bearing, life-giving, and loving functions. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the Ashokan pillars?

To commemorate significant events in the Buddha's life Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic distinguishes the capitals of the Ashokan pillars?

They are influenced by the Achaemenid Empire's aesthetics Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following features is notable about the Sarnath capital?

It has a freeze featuring four animals and four wheels Signup and view all the answers

What does the lion represent in the context of Mauryan art?

Royalty and divine protection Signup and view all the answers

How does the treatment of the horse on the Sarnath capital differ from that of the lion?

The horse shows sympathetic naturalism in body and limbs Signup and view all the answers

What significant aspect of the Buddhist Law did Emperor Ashok adopt?

Piety and moral governance Signup and view all the answers

What is a prominent visual feature of the lions on the Sarnath capital?

A realistic portrayal showcasing detailed features Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a debated aspect of the Ashokan pillars' design?

The technique known as 'Mauryan Polish' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Mauryan Art Overview

Mauryan period spans from 322 to 185 BCE, significant for Buddhist monuments.
Emperor Ashok, converted to Buddhism, played a pivotal role in promoting the faith through art.
Ashok ordered stone memorial columns at key events in the Buddha's life to spread Buddhist teachings.

Ashokan Pillars

Monolithic structures are characterized by a smooth, aristocratic style influenced by Persian artistry.
Each column features edicts at the base, topped with animal figures on a bell-shaped capital, echoing Achaemenid architecture.
Notable column located at Sarnath, showcasing a capital decorated with four lions and a freeze of animals and wheels.

Sarnath Capital

The lions symbolize royalty and are reminiscent of Persian lion sculptures from Persepolis and Susa.
Details include stylized faces, carefully rendered manes, and distinct claws, reflecting a fusion of styles.
Symbolic elements include wheels, representing the Buddha's Law, and animals potentially linked to Hindu deities.

Rampurva Column

Unique bell-shaped capital with a frieze of water flowers, marking an evolving style in Buddhist art.
The bull representation below the capital features a distinct method, smoothly merging traditional Persian and Indian artistic styles.

Yakshas and Yakshis

Statues like the Parkham Yaksha and Besnagar Yakshi represent nature deities and exhibit a shift towards naturalism in Indian sculpture.
Parkham Yaksha is interpreted as a monumental wood sculpture tradition transitioning to stone.
The relaxed posture of the Yakshi evokes comparisons to later Greek sculptures, illustrating an informal approach to figure representation.

Didarganj Yakshi

This sculpture, depicting a voluptuous figure holding a ceremonial chamara, epitomizes the sophisticated Indian figural style of the Mauryan period.
Its proportions reflect essential Indian artistic norms that emphasize femininity and fertility.
Similarities to other early Yakshi works indicate a shared cultural and artistic lineage.

Artistic Techniques and Cultural Significance

"Mauryan Polish" describes the high standard of craftsmanship in stone carving of this era.
The use of symbolism through animals and specific motifs reflects the interplay between Buddhist teachings and existing Hindu traditions.
The sculptures from this period demonstrate an important evolution in Indian art, balancing religious significance and aesthetic achievement.

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Description

Explore the significance of the Ashokan pillars, the earliest Buddhist monuments from the Mauryan period. This quiz delves into the historical context of these monoliths, the conversion of Emperor Ashok, and their role in spreading Buddhist teachings. Test your knowledge on this remarkable aspect of ancient art and architecture.