• UGI USER
  • Nov 03, 2023
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Q. Compare and contrast Mathura, Gandhara, and Amaravati school of art developed during Post- Mauryan times.

 

Introduction

  • Introduce with The development of the Mathura, Gandhara, and Amaravati schools of art not only symbolizes the artistic diversity of ancient India but also holds deeper spiritual significance.

Body

  • Compare and contrast Mathura, Gandhara, and Amaravati school of art.

Conclusion

  • Conclude with these schools of art during the Post-Mauryan period collectively echo the rich tapestry of spiritual exploration.

Answer:

The development of the Mathura, Gandhara, and Amaravati schools of art during the Post-Mauryan period not only symbolizes the artistic diversity of ancient India but also holds deeper spiritual significance. These schools, despite their distinct regional and cultural influences, collectively reflect the essence of spiritual exploration, human expression, and the pursuit of divinity.

Comparison of the Gandhara, Mathura, and Amravati schools of art 

Aspect Gandhara School Mathura School Amravati School
Development Period Flourished from 1st century BC to 5th century AD Originated in 1st century BC, reached its peak till 12th century AD Emerged during the Kushana period in southern regions
Geographical Region Western frontiers of Punjab, near modern-day Peshawar and Afghanistan Centered in Mathura, with secondary centers in Sarnath and Kosambi Southern regions along the Krishna River, Amaravati, Nagarjunakonda, Goli, Ghantasala, and Vengi
External Influences Strong influence of Greco-Roman aesthetics, evident in Hellenistic features of sculptures Indigenous development with minimal external influences Primarily indigenous, but the white marble used to create sculptures creates an impression of marble
Material Used Early phase utilized bluish-grey sandstone, later period incorporated mud and stucco Made predominantly using spotted red sandstone Primarily white marble was used for sculptures
Religious Influence Mainly Buddhist imagery, heavily influenced by Greco-Roman pantheon Influence of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism Primarily influenced by Buddhist themes under Satavahana rulers
Patronage Received patronage from Kushana rulers Patronized by Kushana rulers Sponsored by Satavahana rulers
Buddha Sculpture Representation Depicted spiritual and sad Buddha with Hellenistic features, less ornamentation Exhibited delighted Buddha, with less spiritual and more muscular features, seated in Padmasana Represented Buddha’s life in both human and animal forms, embodying grace and energy
Development Focus Carved images with finer details, focused on anatomical accuracy, spatial depth, and foreshortening Emphasized on internal beauty and facial expressions, less concern for intricate bodily gestures Characterized by intense emotions, dynamic movements, and slender figures with tribhanga postures
Unique Features Greek influences evident in wavy hair, large forehead, long ears, and intricate detailing Indigenous, robust sculptures portraying vitality, less spiritual than Gandhara sculptures Sculptures were made of white marble, giving a sense of grace and energy, representing Buddha’s life in a vibrant manner

 

In essence, the varied representations and artistic expressions of the Mathura, Gandhara, and Amaravati schools of art during the Post-Mauryan period collectively echo the rich tapestry of spiritual exploration, serving as a testament to the diverse paths individuals undertake in their quest for spiritual enlightenment and the divine.