The Shungas, Kanvas, Kushanas, and Guptas thrived in the north and parts of central India also have contribution in the making of Buddhist Sculpture. In southern and western India, the Satavahanas, Ikshavaku, Abhiras, and Vakatakas were prominent. Some of the prominent examples of the finest sculpture are found at Vidisha, Bharhut (MP), Bodhgaya (Bihar), Jaggayyapeta (Andhra Pradesh), Mathura (UP), Khandagiri-Udaigiri (Odisha) etc.

The Contribution of Ashoka in development of Buddhist Sculpture

The dawn of historical Buddhist sculpture in India emerges from the Mauryan period, dated back to the 4th-3rd centuries B.C. This artistic era showcases boldness and massiveness while integrating elements from Achaemenid Persia. Additionally, it incorporates a touch of realism. The great Buddhist Emperor Ashoka caused the erection of monolithic pillars of sandstone, 30 to 40 feet high, crowned by animal figures like the bull, lion and elephant, and had them inscribed with the Buddhist concepts of morality, humanity and piety, which he wished his people to follow. Famous Ashokan pillars are from Lauriya Nandangarh in Bihar, Sanchi and Sarnath.

The pinnacle of Mauryan artistry lies in the polished monolithic lion-capital discovered at Sarnath, now the emblem of the Government of India. This emblematic piece features four roaring lions, symbolically facing the cardinal directions. The intricately carved abacus showcases Dhammachakras (wheels of law), interspersed with an elephant, bull, horse, and lion. Its bell-shaped base, depicting a lotus with a dharmachakra, possibly represents the triumph of righteousness over physical force. The sculpture’s realistic yet stylized figures exude power, dignity, and an international aesthetic, portraying the essence of Mauryan art.

Key Points:

1. Buddhist Sculpture, dated 4th-3rd centuries B.C., showcased a bold and massive style integrating elements from Achaemenid Persia and realism.
2. Emperor Ashoka commissioned monolithic sandstone pillars adorned with animal figures such as lions, bulls, and elephants. These pillars were inscribed with Buddhist principles and can be found at various sites like Lauriya Nandangarh, Sanchi, and Sarnath.
3. The lion-capital at Sarnath, now India’s emblem, features four roaring lions. It sits on an abacus adorned with dharmachakras, symbolizing law, and showcases exquisite detailing.
4. The bell-shaped base symbolizes the victory of righteousness. It showcases figures executed with realistic yet stylized features. This reveals the aristocratic and international nature of Mauryan art.

Summary:

During the Mauryan era in India, historical sculptural art began. This art is notably represent in the Emperor Ashoka’s monolithic sandstone pillars. The exquisite lion-capital at Sarnath, now the Government of India’s emblem, stands as a pinnacle of Mauryan craftsmanship. The sculptures depicted symbolic elements such as roaring lions and dharmachakras. They blended realism with stylization, reflecting the essence of Mauryan artistic brilliance.

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