Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

The Mathura and Gandhara schools of art, emerging during the early centuries of the Christian era, represent two distinct yet interconnected traditions in Indian art.

• While the Mathura School evolved indigenously, the Gandhara School incorporated Greco-Roman influences.
• Both schools significantly contributed to the depiction of Buddha and Buddhist narratives, shaping the development of Buddhist art in India.

Body

Mathura School of Art:

• Period and Centers: Originated in the 1^st century CE, primarily in Mathura (modern Uttar Pradesh).
  • Flourished under the Kushan Empire and reached its zenith during the Gupta period (4th–6th century CE). Notable for the use of spotted red sandstone.
• Contributions to Buddhist Art:
  • Human Representation of Buddha: Transitioned from symbolic depictions (e.g., footprints, stupas) to anthropomorphic images.
    • Buddha is depicted as a robust, energetic figure with spiritual depth.
    • Common features:
      • Shaven head, muscular torso.
      • Right hand in abhayamudra (gesture of reassurance).
      • Padmasana (lotus posture) in seated depictions.
    • Examples: Seated Buddha under the Bodhi tree with dharma chakra and triratna symbols on soles and palms.
  • Distinctive Style: Indigenous craftsmanship emphasizing inner spirituality and facial expressions.
    • Figures carved in the round, visible from all angles.

Gandhara School of Art:

• Period and Centers: Flourished from the 1^st century BCE to the 4^th century CE.
  • Prominent centers: Taxila, Peshawar, Bamiyan, and Begram (modern-day Afghanistan and Northwest India).
• Contributions to Buddhist Art:
  • Greco-Roman Influence: Introduced realism and anatomical precision.
    • Key features:
      • Wavy hair, sharp facial features.
      • Draped garments in Hellenistic style.
      • Halo around Buddha’s head, borrowed from Greek traditions.
  • Depictions of Buddha: Buddha is portrayed as serene and meditative, often resembling the Greek god Apollo.
    • Mastery of storytelling in Buddhist panels depicting Jataka tales and events from Buddha's life.
    • Use of blue-grey schist, giving sculptures a distinct finish.
  • Artistic Realism: Emphasis on bodily details, spatial depth, and emotional expressions.
    • Examples: Standing Buddhas and seated Bodhisattvas with Greek-style drapery and ornamentation.

Conclusion

The Mathura and Gandhara schools collectively enriched Buddhist art, blending indigenous spirituality with foreign aesthetic sensibilities. Mathura's spiritual vigor and Gandhara's realistic finesse laid the foundation for the universal appeal of Indian Buddhist art, ensuring its legacy in Asia and beyond.