Mauryan Art and architecture Class -2

[Audio] The presentation explores the rich heritage of the ancient Indian civilization, covering majestic monuments and intricate crafts. It embarks on a journey through time to discover the beauty and diversity of Indian art and culture..

[Audio] Mauryan art and architecture, also known as the post-Mauryan period, was a significant era in Indian history during which the Mauryan Empire, under the rule of Emperor Ashoka, saw a surge in architectural developments. The Mauryans built numerous structures, including temples, palaces, and monasteries, showcasing their artistic skills and engineering prowess..

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[Audio] The ancient Indians used wood as their primary building material. This is evident from the descriptions given by Megasthenes, a Greek historian who wrote about the palaces built during this period. He considered these structures to be among the greatest creations of mankind..

[Audio] During the reign of Ashoka, the use of pillars became a significant symbol for the state and for commemorating victories in battle. Not only were they used for decoration or show, but also to spread the message of the imperial sermons. The inscriptions on these pillars represented the power and authority of the state, while also serving as a reminder of past battles and victories. These pillars showcased Ashoka's devotion to his empire and people. Propagating imperial sermons through the pillars allowed Ashoka to reach a wider audience and spread his message of peace and harmony. The significance of pillars in Indian art and culture is a testament to the creativity and innovation of our ancestors and a reminder of the rich history of our country..

[Audio] The pillars, typically standing at an average height of forty feet, were crafted from chunar sandstone and consisted of a shaft and capital. This unique architectural style was exemplified by the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which was excavated by F. O. Oertel between nineteen hundred and four and nineteen hundred and five..

[Audio] The Mauryan architects designed their pillars with a strong foundation, using a long shaft formed from a single piece of stone or monolith. This sturdy base supported the capital, which took the shape of a lotus or a bell. The influence of Iranian pillars can be seen in the bell-shaped capitals, as well as the highly polished and lustrous finish of the pillars. Above the capital, an abacus was placed, featuring an animal figure..

[Audio] Almost 84000 stupas were erected during Ashoka's period. This massive construction project was undertaken by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, who ruled India from 269 BCE to 232 BCE. His efforts to spread Buddhism led to the creation of numerous stupas across the country. These structures not only served as centers of worship but also symbolized the spread of Buddhism throughout ancient India..

[Audio] The Mauryan Empire was the first powerful empire to come to power in India. The capital at Pataliputra and the archaeological sites at Kumrahar and Bulandibagh near Patliputra (present Patna in Bihar), were excavated, which reflect the splendor of the Mauryan Empire. The excavated Patliputra capital shows Greek influence in the Indian art. Palaces were built using wood as the principal building material. Megasthenes described the palace as one of the greatest creations of mankind. The core of the stupa was made of unburnt brick while the outer surface was made by using burnt bricks, which were then covered with a thick layer of plaster. The medhi and the toran were decorated by wooden sculptures. Devotees walk around the pradakshina patha or open ambulatory passageway as a token of worship..

[Audio] Almost 84000 stupas were erected during Ashoka's period. The examples of Ashoka's stupas include the Sanchi Stupa in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, which is the most famous one. The Piprahwa stupa in Uttar Pradesh is the oldest one. Additionally, there is the Deur kothar location in Madhya Pradesh, known for its Buddhist stupas and credited to the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. The six-line Brahmi inscription on the Deur kothar pillar is believed to be the earliest evidence of the historic Buddha. During the reign of Ashoka, the inscription on pillars - as a symbol of the state or to commemorate battle victories - assumed great significance. He also used pillars to propagate imperial sermons as well. The core of the stupa was made of unburnt brick while the outer surface was made by using burnt bricks, which were then covered with a thick layer of plaster. The medhi and the toran were decorated by wooden sculptures. Devotees walk around the pradakshina patha or open ambulatory passageway as a token of worship..

[Audio] Rock-cut cave architecture emerged during this period. The Mauryan era witnessed the use of these caves as viharas, or living quarters, for Jain and Buddhist monks. The early caves were primarily utilized by the Ajivika sect, but they eventually became well-known as Buddhist monasteries. These caves were characterized by finely polished interiors and ornate gateways..

[Audio] The ancient rock-cut architecture of India has a rich history dating back to the third century BC. The Barabar and Nagarjuni caves in Bihar, formed during the time of Ashoka and his grandson Dasharatha, exemplify this architectural style. These caves demonstrate the exceptional skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Indians, who intricately carved designs and sculptures onto the rocks. This style of architecture prevailed during the Mauryan period, and it is remarkable to observe how these ancient structures have endured the test of time..

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