After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, new dynasties emerged, leading to a vibrant evolution in Indian art and architecture. This period saw a shift from the single-style royal patronage to a more diverse art scene, heavily influenced by Buddhism, Jainism, Vaishnavism, and Shaivism.
Key Art Centers and Their Styles
Bharhut (Madhya Pradesh)
The art at Bharhut is a transitional style, with sculptures that are as large and monumental as the Mauryan Yaksha and Yakshini figures. These sculptures are carved in low relief, meaning they don't project much from the surface, giving them a sense of flatness. The narratives on the railings feature multiple characters, though the main figures are emphasized to advance the story.
Sanchi Stupa (Madhya Pradesh)
The Great Stupa at Sanchi is a significant example of post-Mauryan architecture. It features two circumambulatory paths and four intricately carved gateways (toranas) depicting scenes from the Buddha's life and Jataka tales. The sculptures at Sanchi are more three-dimensional and naturalistic, showcasing a grand style with a refined depiction of clothing and jewelry.
The Emergence of Buddha in Human Form
During the 1st century CE, the Buddha was for the first time depicted in a human form, primarily in two distinct art schools:
Gandhara School: This style shows a blend of Indian and Greek elements. Buddha sculptures from this school have features like curly hair and draped garments with folds, reflecting Hellenistic influences.
Mathura School: Based on native Indian traditions, this style produced sculptures of the Buddha, Jain Tirthankaras, and Hindu deities. The figures are characterized by a rounded, sturdy physique and a compassionate facial expression.
Rock-Cut Caves and Murals
Western India is home to numerous Buddhist rock-cut caves, categorized into two types:
Chaitya (Prayer Hall): These are large rectangular halls for communal worship, often with a stupa at the back. Notable examples are in Ajanta (Caves 9, 10, 19, 26), Bhaja, and Karle.
Vihara (Monastery): These were residential complexes for monks, featuring a central hall with surrounding cells.
Ajanta (Maharashtra): This site has 26 caves, including both chaityas and viharas. The paintings here are world-famous for their expressive lines and vibrant colors. The murals depict scenes from the Buddha's life and Jataka tales. The paintings are classified into two phases: the first phase (1st century BCE) with limited colors, and the second phase (5th-6th century CE) which is more detailed and complex.
Ellora (Maharashtra): This site has 34 caves dedicated to Buddhism, Brahmanism, and Jainism. The Brahmanical caves (13-28) feature massive, powerful sculptures, such as the famous Ravana Shaking Mount Kailash.
Other Notable Sites:
Bagh (Madhya Pradesh): The caves here contain paintings similar to those at Ajanta, especially in Cave 4, known as the 'Rang Mahal' (Palace of Colors).
Elephanta (Maharashtra):: These caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva, are contemporary with Ellora and feature sculptures known for their grace and slender body forms.
Udayagiri-Khandagiri (Odisha): These Jain caves were built for monks and contain inscriptions from the Jain King Kharavela.
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