Question

Write a note on emperor Ashoka's Influence On Mauryan Art And Architecture

Answer 1

Mainly in the period of Ashoka, the art and architecture was at its zenith and fall within the category of court art. Ashoka embraced Buddhism and the immense Buddhist missionary activities that followed encouraged the development of distinct sculptural and architectural styles.

The Mauryan period art and architecture, except that of the relics of the palace of Chandragupta Maurya at Pataliputra, is mainly Asokan. It can be classified into Stupas, Pillars, Caves, Palaces, and Pottery.

• It was the beginning of the Buddhist School of architecture in India.
• 6th century BC marked the beginning of new socio-religious movements in Gangetic valley in the form of Buddhism and Jainism which were part of the Shramana tradition. By 4th century BC, Mauryas established their power and by 3rd century BC Ashoka patronized Shramana tradition.
• The Mauryan pottery consisted of many types of wares. The black polished type found in North India is important.