All questions of Indian Architecture for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Option C is correct

Option D is correct

Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves Bhuvneshwar, Odisha.

1. Stupas became larger and more decorative in the post-Maurya period:
- The Mauryan Empire, under the rule of Emperor Ashoka, witnessed the construction of numerous stupas. However, it was in the post-Mauryan period that stupas underwent significant changes.
- Stupas are Buddhist structures that contain relics of the Buddha or other important Buddhist figures. They are typically dome-shaped and symbolize the enlightened mind of the Buddha.
- In the post-Mauryan period, stupas started to become larger and more elaborate in design. This can be observed in the architectural style of the Great Stupa at Sanchi, which was constructed during this period. The size of the stupas increased, and they were adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and decorative elements.
- The increased size and decorative nature of the stupas in the post-Mauryan period reflected the growing popularity and influence of Buddhism during that time.

2. Wood was the principal building material:
- The construction of stupas in the post-Mauryan period primarily involved the use of stone and brick. Wood was not the principal building material for stupas during this period.
- Stone and brick were preferred due to their durability and ability to withstand the test of time. Wood, being a perishable material, would have been less suitable for the construction of long-lasting structures.
- However, it is worth noting that wood may have been used for temporary structures or elements within the stupa, such as scaffolding during construction or decorative elements such as doors and railings. But overall, stone and brick were the primary materials used in stupa construction during this period.

3. Their torans were evidence of Hellenistic influence:
- Torans are decorative gateways or arches that are often found in front of stupas. They serve as entrances to the stupa and are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- The presence of torans in the post-Mauryan period can indeed be seen as evidence of Hellenistic influence. Hellenistic art and architecture, which were influenced by the Greek civilization, had a significant impact on the art and culture of the region during this period.
- The design and ornamentation of torans often incorporated elements such as floral motifs, human figures, and architectural elements that were influenced by the Hellenistic style.
- The use of torans in the post-Mauryan stupas reflects the assimilation and synthesis of various cultural influences, including Hellenistic, in the development of Buddhist art and architecture during this period.

Therefore, statement 1 and 3 are correct, while statement 2 is incorrect. The correct answer is option 'C' (1 and 3 only).

Understanding the Pasupati Seal
The Pasupati Seal is one of the most significant artifacts discovered from the Harappan Civilization, highlighting the artistry and culture of this ancient society.
Composition of the Seal
- The Pasupati Seal is primarily made of steatite, a soft metamorphic rock composed mainly of talc.
- Steatite is favored for its malleability, allowing artisans to carve intricate designs easily.
Characteristics of Steatite
- Softness: Steatite is softer than many other stones, making it easier to carve.
- Durability: Despite its softness, steatite is quite durable when polished, which helps preserve the carvings over time.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The stone has a natural luster and can be polished to a smooth finish, enhancing its visual appeal.
Significance of the Pasupati Seal
- The seal features an image of a deity, often interpreted as a prototype of Lord Shiva, surrounded by animals. This reflects the spiritual and cultural beliefs of the Harappan people.
- Its discovery provides insight into the trade, art, and religious practices of the Harappan Civilization.
Conclusion
The Pasupati Seal's creation from steatite underscores the advanced skills of Harappan artisans. This choice of material not only facilitated intricate designs but also contributed to the seal’s longevity, allowing it to be appreciated by future generations.

Mathura School and Madurai School

The Mathura School of Art and Madurai School of Art are two significant schools of art in ancient India. Let us discuss the given statements in detail.

Mathura School of Art

- The Mathura School of Art flourished in the period between the 1st century BCE and the 3rd century CE.
- It developed in the region of Mathura, which was an important centre of trade and commerce situated on the banks of the Yamuna river in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
- The Mathura School of Art was patronised by the Kushana rulers who ruled over a vast empire in northern India during this period.
- The school produced some of the finest sculptures in Indian art, including the famous standing Buddha statue at the Sarnath Museum in Varanasi.
- The sculptures of the Mathura School are characterised by their naturalistic style, with an emphasis on human emotions and physical features.

Madurai School of Art

- The Madurai School of Art developed in the region of Madurai in present-day Tamil Nadu.
- It flourished during the period between the 7th century CE and the 12th century CE.
- The Madurai School of Art was influenced by the Pallava and Chola styles of architecture and sculpture.
- The sculptures of the Madurai School are characterised by their intricate carvings and elaborate details.
- The Madurai School is known for its famous Meenakshi Temple, which is an outstanding example of Dravidian architecture and sculpture.

Correct Statement

- The first statement is correct. The Mathura School of Art was indeed patronised by the Kushana rulers.
- The second statement is incorrect. The Madurai School of Art did not develop in the North-West frontier. It developed in the southern region of Madurai in Tamil Nadu.

Hence, the correct answer is option 'A', i.e., 1 only.

• Udayaragiri caves (not to be confused with Udayagiri-Khandagiri Caves in Odisha): It is located in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh. Created in the early 5th century AD under the patronage of Chandragupta II, it is famous for having numerous sculptures on the hill walls.
• The sculpture of Varaha or Boar incarnation of the Vishnu is notable. The caves have one of the earliest Hindu sculptures. It also has caves dedicated to Shiva, Narasimha (half-lion, half-man), Narayana (resting Vishnu) and Skanda.

Explanation:

1. Shaft of Ashokan pillars:
- The statement that the shafts of Ashokan pillars are always plain and smooth, and they taper upwards is correct. The shafts of Ashokan pillars are indeed known for their simplicity and elegant design, tapering towards the top.

2. Capitals of Ashokan pillars:
- The statement that the capitals of Ashokan pillars are shaped like a gently arched bell formed of lotus petals is also correct. The capitals of Ashokan pillars are distinctive in their design, resembling a bell with lotus petals arranged in an arch.

3. Crowning animals on Ashokan pillars:
- The statement that the crowning animals on Ashokan pillars are always seated and chiselled as a single piece with the abaci is incorrect. The crowning animals on Ashokan pillars can vary, with some being seated while others are standing. Additionally, they are not always chiselled as a single piece with the abaci.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B) 1 and 2 Only, as the first two statements accurately describe the characteristics of Ashokan pillars.

1. Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath: National Emblem of India
The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath is correctly matched as it is indeed the National Emblem of India. It features four lions standing back to back mounted on a circular base. This emblem symbolizes the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is a sculpture of four lions standing back to back, originally erected atop the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath.

2. Ashoka Pillar, Allahabad: Contains the inscriptions of Samudragupta
The Ashoka Pillar at Allahabad is incorrectly matched in the given pairs. The pillar at Allahabad is famous for the inscriptions of Ashoka and not Samudragupta. This pillar contains inscriptions recording the imperial orders of Ashoka.

3. Bharhut Stupa: Contains numerous Jataka tales
The Bharhut Stupa is correctly matched as it is known for its sculptural art depicting numerous Jataka tales. These tales are stories of the previous lives of Gautama Buddha.

4. Amaravati Stupa: Transformed from a Hinayana shrine to a Mahayana shrine
The Amaravati Stupa is correctly matched as it was originally built as a Hinayana shrine but later transformed into a Mahayana shrine. This stupa is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various Buddhist motifs and narratives.
In conclusion, out of the four pairs given, three are correctly matched - Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath; Bharhut Stupa; Amaravati Stupa. Only one pair, Ashoka Pillar, Allahabad, is incorrectly matched as it does not contain the inscriptions of Samudragupta but of Ashoka.

Explanation:

Statement-I:
- The Mauryan monuments and pillars are indeed considered some of the finest specimens of Indian art.
- The Mauryan architecture primarily used stone, not timber, due to the durability and grandeur it provided.
- The use of rocks and stones was prevalent during the Mauryan era, as seen in structures like the Ashokan pillars.

Statement-II:
- The Mauryan Emperor Ashoka played a significant role in promoting stone architecture in India.
- Ashoka's reign saw the construction of various stone structures like pillars, railings, thrones, and figures.
- The stonework during the Ashokan Period was influenced by various cultures, combining indigenous and exotic forms.

Correct Answer:
- Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, with Statement-II providing additional context and elaboration on the development of stone architecture during the Mauryan period.
- The combination of both statements highlights the significance of Ashoka's contributions to Indian architecture and the use of stone as a primary building material.

Explanation:

Statement-I:
- The Ashokan period indeed marked the beginning of the Buddhist School of architecture in India.
- During this period, many rock-cut caves, pillars, stupas, and palaces were constructed, showcasing the architectural prowess of that era.

Statement-II:
- The Sarnath pillar, erected in 250 BC during the Ashokan period, is indeed one of the finest pieces of sculpture from that time.
- It features four lions seated back to back, symbolizing power, courage, confidence, and pride.
Therefore, both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II further explains the significance of architectural achievements during the Ashokan period.

Correctly Matched Pairs:
The correctly matched pairs are as follows:
1. Mauryan Emperor — Chandragupta Maurya
- Chandragupta Maurya was indeed a Mauryan Emperor who founded the Maurya Empire in ancient India.
2. Harappan Sculpture — Dancing Girl
- The Dancing Girl sculpture is a famous artifact from the Harappan civilization, showcasing the artistic skills of that era.
3. Ashokan Pillar — Red Sandstone
- Ashokan pillars, erected by Emperor Ashoka, were commonly made of red sandstone, symbolizing power and authority.

Incorrectly Matched Pair:
4. Terracotta Art — Indus Valley Civilization
- Terracotta art is more commonly associated with the later periods of Indian history, particularly during the Gupta Empire, rather than the Indus Valley Civilization.
Therefore, only three pairs out of the four given are correctly matched. It is important to correctly identify the historical context and artistic styles associated with different periods in Indian history to accurately match pairs like these.

The sculptures of Mathura School were made using spotted red sandstone.

Statement Analysis:

Statement-I:
- The monolithic Ashokan pillars were made out of fine sandstone
- Each pillar was about 15.24 meters high
- Each pillar weighed approximately 50 tonnes

Statement-II:
- The Sarnath pillar was erected in 250 BC
- The pillar features four lions seated back to back
- The lions symbolize power, courage, confidence, and pride
- The Lion Capital of Ashoka from Sarnath is now the National Emblem of India

Correctness:
Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct. Statement-I provides information about the Ashokan pillars, mentioning their material, height, and weight. Statement-II talks about the Sarnath pillar, its significance, and the symbolism of the lions on it. While the two statements provide distinct information about different pillars, they are both accurate in their respective contexts.

Explanation:
- The Ashokan pillars, including the monolithic ones, were indeed made from fine sandstone, with each pillar towering at a height of approximately 15.24 meters and weighing about 50 tonnes.
- The Sarnath pillar, erected in 250 BC, showcases four lions back to back, representing various virtues like power, courage, confidence, and pride. This Lion Capital has now become the National Emblem of India, signifying its historical and cultural importance.
Therefore, both statements are correct, with each offering unique insights into the Ashokan pillars and the significance of the Sarnath pillar in Indian history and heritage.