If you were living in the Harappan civilisation, you might have come a...
- Many gold and silver ornaments were found which indicates the prevalence of goldsmiths.
- Pottery remains plain and in some places, red and black painted pottery is found.
- Stonecutters made beads from a wide variety of semi-precious stones.
- The priest king sculpture wears clothes, which shows the prevalence of weavers in the society.
If you were living in the Harappan civilisation, you might have come a...
Specialized Groups of Artisans in the Harappan Civilization
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, was one of the earliest urban civilizations in the world. It flourished from approximately 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent. The civilization was known for its advanced urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and a thriving economy. Among the various specialized groups of artisans in the Harappan civilization, three prominent ones were goldsmiths, stonecutters, and weavers.
1. Goldsmiths:
Goldsmiths were highly skilled craftsmen who worked with precious metals, particularly gold. They had the knowledge and expertise to create intricate and beautiful jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. The Harappans had access to gold from nearby regions, including the Himalayas and the Gangetic plains. Gold ornaments have been found in abundance at Harappan sites, indicating the significance of goldsmiths in their society.
2. Stonecutters:
Stonecutters were another group of specialized artisans in the Harappan civilization. They were skilled in working with various types of stones, including granite, limestone, and sandstone. Stone was a commonly used material in the construction of Harappan cities, as seen in the well-preserved remains of structures such as the Great Bath and the citadel. Stonecutters played a crucial role in shaping and carving stones for building purposes.
3. Weavers:
Weaving was an essential craft in the Harappan civilization, and weavers were skilled artisans who produced textiles using techniques such as spinning, dyeing, and loom weaving. Cotton was the most commonly used fabric, and evidence of cotton cultivation and textile production has been found at Harappan sites. The high quality of Harappan textiles is evident from the intricate patterns and designs found on pottery and seals.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, if you were living in the Harappan civilization, you would have come across specialized groups of artisans such as goldsmiths, stonecutters, and weavers. Goldsmiths excelled in creating exquisite jewelry, stonecutters played a vital role in constructing buildings, and weavers produced high-quality textiles. These artisans contributed significantly to the thriving economy and cultural richness of the Harappan civilization. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D' - All of the above.