Arts Of The Mauryan Period: Class 11 NCERT Fine Art Guide

Introduction to Arts Of The Mauryan Period

The Mauryan period (c. 322–185 BCE) marks a golden era in Indian art, especially in sculpture and architecture. Under Emperor Ashoka, art became a tool to spread Buddhist teachings and royal authority. Mauryan artists introduced polished sandstone sculptures and monumental pillars, setting new standards in craftsmanship. This period is crucial for Class 11 NCERT students to understand the blend of political power and religious art.

Key features include:

• Use of polished sandstone
• Large-scale stone pillars and capitals
• Symbolism promoting Dharma (moral law)
• Development of Buddhist architectural forms like stupas

Mauryan art did not invent sculpture but refined and expanded it significantly, influencing later Indian art traditions.

The Lion Capital of Sarnath: Symbol of Mauryan Artistry

The Lion Capital of Sarnath is the most celebrated Mauryan sculpture, commissioned by Emperor Ashoka to mark the Buddha's first sermon. It consists of four majestic lions seated back to back on a circular abacus decorated with animals and the Dharma Chakra (wheel).

Key elements:

• Four Lions: Realistic facial features, muscular limbs, and curly manes show exceptional craftsmanship.
• Abacus: Features a 24-spoked Dharma Chakra and four animals (bull, horse, elephant, lion) symbolizing different directions and virtues.
• Lotus Base: Inverted lotus petals carved beneath the abacus represent purity and spiritual awakening.

The Lion Capital is viewed from all sides, emphasizing its monumental and symbolic nature. It is now India’s National Emblem, reflecting Ashoka’s ideals of peace and dharma.

Mauryan Sculpture Techniques and Styles

Mauryan sculptors excelled in stone carving, especially in polishing sandstone to a mirror-like finish. This technique, unique for its time, gave sculptures a smooth and refined look.

Characteristics of Mauryan sculptures:

• Naturalism: Sculptures like the lions show realistic anatomy and expressions.
• Symbolism: Animals and motifs like the Dharma Chakra convey spiritual messages.
• Monumentality: Large pillars and capitals were designed to impress and convey imperial power.

Besides the Lion Capital, other sculptures include the Didargunj Yakshini, a female figure symbolizing fertility and prosperity. These works demonstrate a blend of naturalistic form and symbolic meaning.

Mauryan art influenced later Indian sculpture styles, especially in Buddhist and Jain traditions.

Development of Stupa Architecture in the Mauryan Period

Stupas are dome-shaped monuments housing relics of the Buddha or important monks. During the Mauryan period, stupas evolved from simple earthen mounds to elaborate stone structures.

Features of Mauryan stupas:

• Great Stupa at Sanchi: Originally commissioned by Ashoka, it features a hemispherical dome, stone casing, and elaborate gateways (toranas).
• Vedikas (railings): Stone railings decorated with carvings surround the stupa.
• Symbolism: The stupa represents the Buddha’s presence and path to enlightenment.

This architectural evolution reflects the growing importance of Buddhism and Ashoka’s role in promoting it. Stupas became central to Buddhist worship and pilgrimage.

Symbolism in Mauryan Art and Buddhist Themes

Mauryan art is rich in symbolism, especially related to Buddhism. Key themes depicted include:

• Four Events in Buddha’s Life: Birth, Enlightenment, First Sermon, and Parinirvana are often illustrated in sculptures and reliefs.
• Animals: The bull, horse, elephant, and lion represent strength, speed, wisdom, and courage.
• Dharma Chakra: The 24-spoked wheel symbolizes the Buddha’s teachings and the cycle of life.

These symbols were not only religious but also political, reinforcing Ashoka’s message of moral governance and peace.

Worked Example: Understanding the Dharma Chakra

The Dharma Chakra has 24 spokes, each representing a principle of dharma. For example:

This shows how art conveyed complex ethical teachings visually.

Comparison: Mauryan Art vs Earlier Indian Sculptures

Mauryan art marked a significant advancement over earlier Indian sculptures such as those from the Indus Valley Civilization.

Mauryan art’s grandeur and symbolism reflect the empire’s political and religious aspirations, unlike the primarily utilitarian earlier art forms.