Arts of Mauryan period

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September 30, 2016 by slatelive

• Asokha patronised shraman tradition in 3rd cen BC.
• Yaksha worship was popular before and after the advent of Bhuddhism and it was assimilated in Buddhism and Jainism.
• Stupas, viharas, stone pillars, rock-cut caves and monumental figure sculptures were carved in several places during the period.
• Erection of pillars was prevalent in the Achamenian empire as well. Mauryan pillars are different from Achamenian pillars.
• Mauryan pillars are rock-cut pillars thus displaying carver’s skill.
• Achamenian pillars are constructed in pieces by mason
• Stone pillars were erected all over Mauryan empire with inscriptions engraved on them.
• Top portion of the pillar was carved with capital figures like the bull, the lion, the elephant etc.
• Capital figures are vigourous and carved standing on a square and circular abacus.
• Abacuses are decorated with stylised lotuses.
• Mauryan pillar capital found at Sarnath popularly known as lion capital is the finest example of Mauryan sculptural tradition.
• It’s our national emblem
• Sarnath pillar capital symbolises dharmachakrapravarthana (first sermon of Buddha)
• Lomus Rishi cave or barabar rock cut caves.
  it’s the first rock cut caves.
  It is patronised by Asokha for Ajvika sect.
• Stupas were constructed over the relics of the Buddha at Rajagraha, Vaishali, Kapilavastu, Allakappa, Ramagrama, Vethadipa, Pava, Kushinagar and Pippalvina.
• Stupa, Vihara and Chaitya are part of Buddhist and Jaina monastic complexes. But the largest number belong to the Bhuddhist region.
• Stupa at Bairat in Rajasthan: 3rd cen BC;
  grand stupa having a circular mound with a circumambulatory path.
• Sanchi stupa: build with bricks during Ashoka’s period.