Question

Q. Consider these statements about Gandhara and Mathura Architecture in India:

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• A. 1 only
• B. 2 only
• C. Both 1 and 2
• D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

The correct option is B 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect:

• It flourished between the 1st century BCE to 4th century CE
• Closely connected to the Mahayana Buddhism
• A distinct influence of the old Greek school of art
• Patronized by Indo-Greeks
• Buddha iconography inspired by those of Apollo
• Geographical location - Taxila, Peshawar, Begram, and Bamiyan
• The main theme of this art was Buddha and Bodhisattvas
• Extensive use of Bluish-Grey, black stone, and stucco
• Free-standing structures included many chaityas, Viharas, and stupas

Statement 2 is correct.

Mathura school of Art:

• It flourished around the Mathura region from 1st century CE
• Began as indigenous art traditions but later increasing Greek influence under the Kushana rule.
• Extensive use of locally available white spotted (mottled) red sandstone.
• The first images of Buddha were made here - later spread to other places including Gandhara.
• Emphasis is laid on inner beauty - Calm and composed Buddha.
• Images of Jain Tirthankaras at places like Kankalitila.
• Images of gods and goddesses like Vishnu, Lakshmi, Shiva, Parvati, Kuber were
• also made.
• Images of Kushana emperors Kanishka and Huvishka were also made, however, their head seems to be destroyed later. Ex- Headless statue of Kanishka.
• their head seems to be destroyed later. Ex- Headless statue of KanishkaRamananda is regarded as the first reformer to preach in Hindawi.