Arts of the Mauryan Period Notes in English Class 11 Fine Art Chapter-3 Book-1

1. Religious Movements in 6th Century BCE

Buddhism and Jainism emerged in the Gangetic Valley as part of the Shraman tradition, which followed a spiritual path outside the Vedic ritual system. These religions opposed the varna and jati divisions of Hinduism and gained popularity due to their simplicity, emphasis on non-violence, and message of equality.

2. Political Context

Magadha grew into a powerful kingdom, and by the 4th century BCE, the Maurya Empire emerged. In the 3rd century BCE, Ashoka became the most powerful Mauryan ruler. He embraced and patronised Buddhism, helping spread its teachings widely.

3. Religious Diversity

Yaksha and mother-goddess worship existed both before and after the rise of Buddhism. Various forms of worship coexisted during this time. Over time, Yaksha worship was absorbed into both Buddhism and Jainism, blending local beliefs with these new religious traditions.

4. Architecture and Art Forms

Stupas and viharas were built as important Buddhist monastic centers. Other architectural forms that emerged included stone pillars, rock-cut caves, and monumental sculptures, reflecting the artistic and religious growth of the period.

5. Mauryan Pillars

Ashoka erected stone pillars across north India, each carved from a single piece of rock—unlike Achamenian pillars, which were built in parts. These pillars were topped with animal capital figures such as lions, bulls, and elephants. Notable sites where these pillars have been found include Sarnath, Sankisa, Rampurva, Lauriya-Nandangarh, and Basarah-Bakhira.

6. Lion Capital at Sarnath

The Lion Capital of Sarnath is the best example of Mauryan sculpture. It features four roaring lions standing back to back on a circular base. The base (abacus) is carved with a horse, bull, elephant, and lion, symbolizing the Dhammachakrapravartana—Buddha’s first sermon. This iconic sculpture is now India’s national emblem.

7. Yaksha & Yakshini Sculptures

Yaksha sculptures have been found in places like Patna, Vidisha, and Mathura. These figures are mostly shown in a standing posture and are noted for their highly polished surfaces and finely detailed facial features. A famous example is the Didarganj Yakshi from Patna.

8. Rock-Cut Elephant at Dhauli (Odisha)

A large sculpted elephant is found along with an Ashokan rock edict, showcasing realistic modelling. This sculpture reflects the advanced artistic skills of the Mauryan period.

9. Rock-Cut Caves

The Lomus Rishi Cave at Barabar Hills in Gaya, Bihar, is a prime example of Mauryan rock-cut architecture. Donated by Ashoka to the Ajivika sect, it features a semicircular Chaitya arch, an elephant frieze, and a rectangular hall with a circular chamber, reflecting early Buddhist architectural design.

10. Stupas and Monasteries (Viharas & Chaityas)

Stupas were built in large numbers with the spread of Buddhism and Jainism. Many were constructed over the relics of the Buddha at places like Rajagraha, Vaishali, Pava, Vethadipa, Kapilavastu, Kushinagar, Ramagrama, and Pippalvina. Stupas were also built outside the Gangetic Valley, including regions like Avanti and Gandhara.

11. Examples of Stupas

The Bairat Stupa in Rajasthan, dating to the 3rd century BCE, is one of the earliest Buddhist stupas. The famous Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh was originally built with bricks during Ashoka's reign and was later enlarged and covered with stone.

12. Patronage and Donors

Art and architecture during this period were not limited to royal patronage. Donors included lay devotees, gahapatis (householders), and guilds. Inscriptions often mention the professions of these donors. Some artisans are even named, such as Kanha from Pitalkhora and Balaka from the Kondane caves.

13. Artisans Mentioned in Inscriptions

Various skilled professionals contributed to ancient art and architecture, including stone carvers, goldsmiths, stone polishers, and carpenters. Their craftsmanship played a vital role in creating the detailed and polished works of the period.

LION CAPITAL, SARNATH

1. Location and Discovery

The Sarnath Lion Capital was found at Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Discovered over 100 years ago, it is one of the most iconic artifacts of ancient India and is now known as the Sarnath Lion Capital.

2. Historical Background

The Sarnath Lion Capital was built by Emperor Ashoka to commemorate Buddha’s first sermon, known as the Dhammachakrapravartana. It belongs to the Mauryan period and reflects the artistic excellence of that era.

3. Original 5 Parts of the Capital

The Sarnath Lion Capital originally had a tall shaft (now broken), a lotus-shaped bell base, and a drum featuring four animals—lion, elephant, horse, and bull—moving clockwise. On top are four lions seated back-to-back. The Dharamchakra (wheel), which was once placed above the lions, is now broken and preserved in the Sarnath Museum.

4. National Emblem

The Sarnath Lion Capital was adopted as the National Emblem of Independent India, excluding the wheel and lotus base. The original sculpture is now preserved in the Archaeological Museum at Sarnath.

5. Description of the Lions

The Sarnath Lion Capital features four majestic lions seated back-to-back, symbolizing power and pride. The sculpture is massive and impressive, reflecting strength and dignity. The detailed naturalism is evident in the facial muscles, curved lips, and expressive features. The lions' manes are sharply carved with curly lines, and their bodies show clear muscle tension and weight, highlighting the sculptor's skill.

6. Abacus (Circular Base)

The drum of the Sarnath Lion Capital features a 24-spoked chakra (wheel) in each direction. Between each chakra are four animals—bull, horse, elephant, and lion—each symbolizing strength and movement. Despite the limited space, the figures appear dynamic and full of life. The chakra represents the Dhammachakra, or Wheel of Dharma, symbolizing the spread of Buddha’s teachings.

7. Lotus Base (Inverted)

Below the abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital is the beautifully carved lotus bell base. Each lotus petal is sculpted with careful thickness and fine detail. The lower part of the base features a smooth, curved surface, enhancing the overall grace and balance of the sculpture.

8. 360° View Design

The Sarnath Lion Capital was designed as a fully round sculpture, meant to be viewed from all sides. Its balanced composition and detailed carvings ensure that it looks impressive from every angle, not just the front.

9. Other Lion Capitals

Another lion capital was discovered at Sanchi, though it is in a damaged condition. The motif of the lion on pillars, first seen during Ashoka’s time, continued to appear in later periods, influencing future Indian art and architecture

DIDARGUNJ YAKSHINI

1. Didarganj Yakshini (Mauryan Period)

The Didarganj Yakshi was found at Didarganj near Patna and is now preserved in the Patna Museum. It is made of polished sandstone and is life-size, freestanding, and carved in the round, meaning it is finely finished on all sides. The figure holds a chauri (flywhisk) in her right hand, while the left hand is broken.

Features:

• Well-built, tall, graceful female figure

• Polished surface shows Mauryan skill

• Round, muscular body, sharp features

• Tight garment clings to body – gives semi-transparent effect

• Necklace beads fully rounded and visible

• Hair tied in a knot at the back

• Heavy ornaments on legs

• Back view is also finely carved

• Flywhisk detail continues to the back of sculpture

2. Patronage and Artists

Sculptures during this period were often created by groups of artists working collectively. Traders frequently donated to these projects and mentioned their place of origin in inscriptions. While the overall work was a group effort, specific parts of monuments were sometimes sponsored by individual donors.

3. Expansion of Stupa Architecture (2nd Century BCE)

Many early stupas were later expanded or newly decorated. These additions included circumambulatory paths for ritual walking, railings, sculptural panels, and beautifully carved gateways known as toranas, enhancing both their religious and artistic significance.

4. Parts of a Typical Stupa

Stupas were typically built with a standard structure that included a cylindrical drum (base), an anda (dome), a harmika (square railing above the dome), and a chhatra (umbrella structure on top). While the size and shape varied, these main parts remained consistent across different stupas.

5. Symbolic Depiction of Buddha (Early Phase)

In early Buddhist art, the Buddha was not depicted in human form. Instead, he was represented symbolically through footprints, the stupa, chakra (wheel), and lotus throne. This style reflected simple devotion and deep respect, with important events from his life shown indirectly through these symbols.

6. Narrative Art in Buddhist Sculpture

As Buddhist art evolved, storytelling became increasingly important, with scenes carved on railings and gateways (toranas). Three narrative styles emerged: synoptic, where multiple events appear in one frame; continuous, where the same character is shown multiple times in a panel; and episodic, where different parts of a story are shown separately.

7. Main Events from Buddha's Life Depicted

Key events from the Buddha’s life often depicted in Buddhist art include his birth, renunciation, enlightenment, Dhammachakrapravartana (first sermon), and Mahaparinibbana (final liberation or death). These moments symbolize his spiritual journey and teachings.

8. Popular Jataka Stories in Sculptures

These are famous Jataka tales, which illustrate the previous lives of the Buddha and highlight values like compassion, sacrifice, and wisdom:

• Chhadanta Jataka – Story of a six-tusked elephant (Buddha's previous birth) showing sacrifice

• Vidurpundita Jataka – Highlights wisdom and righteousness of Vidura

• Ruru Jataka – A compassionate deer who saves a drowning man

• Sibi Jataka – King Sibi sacrifices his flesh to save a dove

• Vessantara Jataka – Prince Vessantara gives away everything in generosity

• Shama Jataka – A devoted son who serves his blind parents with deep care and love