This article is about the town in Uttar Pradesh. For the village in Maharashtra, see Bitargaon,
Bhitargaon temple in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India | |
Bhitargaon Shown within South Asia Show map of South Asia Show map of Uttar Pradesh Show all | |
Location | Bhitargaon, Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India |
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Coordinates | 26°12′38″N 80°16′34″E / 26.210556°N 80.276111°E Coordinates : 26°12′38″N 80°16′34″E / 26.210556°N 80.276111°E |
Type | Hindu Temple |
History | |
Founded | Late 5th century CE |
Cultures | Gupta Empire |
Bhitargaon is a town, near city of Kanpur in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its ancient Hindu temple, the largest Indian brick temple to survive from the time of the Gupta Empire, Despite being heavily restored, a number of original features remain. It is dated to the late 5th century.
Contents
Which of the following one is a brick temple belong to Gupta period?
The Bhitargaon Temple is a terraced brick building fronted with a terracotta panel. Built in the 6th century during the Gupta Empire, it is the oldest remaining terracotta Hindu shrine with a roof and a high Sikhara, though its upper chamber did sustain some damage in the 18th century.
Gupta Kalin Temple Pic FROM distance
Gupta Kalin Temple Near
Gupta Kalin Temple Picture Long
Which is a famous temple of the Gupta period?
Temple Art in Gupta Period Gupta Period is called the “Golden age of India” or the “Classical Age of India” partially due to the unprecedented activities and development in the arts, architecture, sculpture, painting and literature. During Gupta Era, the rock cut architecture reached its zenith and this era marked the beginning of the Free Standing temple Architecture. Most of the temples built in the Gupta era were carved with representation of Gods (mainly avatara of Vishnu and Lingams) and Goddesses. The most important temple of Gupta era is Dasavatar Temple of Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh, Following is a brief description of the temples & Stupas of the Gupta Era:
Which of the following is the first brick temple of India?
Brick Temple at Bhitargaon The temple at Bhitargaon in Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) is one of the earliest surviving brick temples of India.
It was built in the 5th century A.D during the Gupta Empire, It is the oldest remaining terracotta Hindu shrine with a roof and a high Shikhara (spire) which paved the way for elaborate Nagara style of temple architecture in North India.
Who built Gupta temple?
Hint: The Guptas were the first Hindu temple architects who developed from the earlier rock-cut shrine tradition. These temples, decorated with towers and intricate carvings, were also devoted to all the Hindu gods. Relatively few of a large number of constructed Gupta temples have survived.
Complete solution: The Gupta Dynasty, founded by Chandragupta I, ruled in North Central India between the 4th and 6th centuries CE, and the era is considered a golden age of artistic accomplishment. With the single cubicle “garbhagriha” in the middle, most temples during the Gupta period also follow a square plan.
This is normally entered by a short columned porch with a projecting lintel set over a single, highly decorated doorway. A pot-and-foliage capital can be supported by columns, and roofs are usually flat, as in surviving examples at Tigawa and Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh.
Other traditional Gupta decorative features include triangle motifs inside doorways and lion’s heads at the ends of stone beams. Cave-temples were the earliest examples of religious architecture, which usually had exterior sculptures adorned with relief and a single carved doorway. Ritual sculptures, such as a Shiva linga (phallus), were mounted inside the shrine and the walls were richly decorated with more carvings depicting mythological scenes.
Notable examples are found in Madhya Pradesh at Udayagiri, where one cave bears a 401 CE date mark. Finally, the Ajanta caves, a row of 29 rock-cut caves following the ravine of the Waghora river bed in northwest Deccan, should be described. They include some of the earliest and finest examples of Indian wall painting, dating from the 2nd century BCE to the 7th century CE.
Where is the cave temple built during the Gupta period?
Hint: Ajanta caves are Buddhist monasteries and rock-cut cave temples, situated near Ajanta village in north-central Maharashtra state of India. The cave is known for their wall paintings. The paintings portray pictorial stories from Aryasura’s Jatakamala, the rebirths and past lives and of the Buddha and sculptures of Buddhist deity.
- Complete answer: The Ajanta caves were built during the Gupta period.The Ajanta Caves were built during the Gupta period.
- The Ajanta caves near Aurangabad are famous for their cave,sculpture, architecture, and murals.
- The caves have been acknowledged as a World Heritage Site by The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
The caves embrace elaborate paintings and sculptures that depict the artistic work of the ancient period. It also has 29 rock-cut caves that were built between the 2nd to 8th centuries. The paintings on the walls of the Ajanta Caves portray the stories from the life of the Buddha.
- The Jataka tales are also portrayed in the paintings.
- The Ajanta Caves are known to be made in two different phases, the first phase from the 2nd century BCE to 1st century CE, and a second phase many centuries later.
- Hence, the correct answer is option (B).
- Note: The caves 9, 10, 12, 13, and 15A are considered the earliest caves and were constructed during the first phase.
They depict the stories of jatakas. The later caves portray the work of Guptas. Out of all these caves, 9 and 10 have Buddhist Stupas with worship halls.
Which temples were built during the Gupta period?
Key examples – The key examples of Gupta architecture among temples are Dasavatara temple of Deogarh, Bhitargaon temple, Vishnu Temple of Tigawa Jabalpur, Shiva Temple of Bhumara, Parvati Temple of Nachria Kathura, Mukund Darra Temple of Kota, Lakshaman Temple of Raipur, Shiva Temple of Koh and Bhitari Temple at Ghazipur.
Which is the 1st temple in India?
Mundeshvari temple: History in every stone May 27, 2021 06:57 pm | Updated 06:57 pm IST ‘Mundeshvari temple is considered the oldest functional temple in the country’ — I have come across this clichéd-sounding line multiple times. And it set me thinking. Mundeshvari temple in Bihar I also chance upon a reference to the temple in Saba Dewan’s classic, Tawaifnama, where she writes: “Some recent scholars are of the opinion that the goddess installed in the Mundeshvari temple might well have been a deity worshipped originally by the aboriginal population, described in the Vedic and post-Vedic texts as asura and daitya. The archaeological remains around Mundeshvari temple, Bihar Along with two colleagues I plan a trip from Benaras. We cross over into Bihar and pass through a huge gate bearing the name of the temple. At the foot of the hill atop which the temple stands (the temple’s height is reportedly 182.8 metres.) we see many people in colourful clothes.
What are the 3 types of temples?
Major Indian Temple Architecture Styles India has a rich culture and varied heritage which has been evolved from the Indus valley civilization. The Architecture holds the indigenous cultural traditions and social requirements, economic prosperity, the religious practice of different eras.
Thus, the study of architecture discloses the cultural diversities of India. Most of Indian art is encouraged by religion. Here we are giving the details about the Major style of Temple architecture. Aspirants can find information on the structure and other important details related to the, in the linked article.
Indian Art and culture remains a difficult area for many UPSC aspirants. There will be a mixture of questions from Ancient India, Medieval India, and Current affairs. The old NCERT books of Ancient and Medieval India is the basic as well as the essential reading book for UPSC IAS prelims exam.
The Nagara style is associated with the land between the Himalayas and Vindhyas and developed regionally in Northern parts of India. In this style, the structure comprises of two buildings, the main taller shrine and an adjoining mandapa which is short. The foremost difference between these two buildings is the shape of the shikhara. In the main shrine, a bell-shaped structure is added. The temples are mainly are formed of four chambers. They are
Garbhagriha Jagmohan Natyamandir Bhogamandir
Two distinguishing features of the Nagara style are its planning and elevation. The plan is square with a number of gradual projections in the middle of each side which imparts it a cruciform shape. There are four projection types. When there is One projection on each side- ‘triratha’ Two projections – ‘Pancharatha’ Three projections – ‘Saptharatha’ Four projections –‘Navaratha’
It exhibits Shikhara-A tower, in elevation which is progressively inclining to in a convex curve. The projections in the plan are also carried upwards to the top of the Shikhara. Originally in Nagara style, there were no pillars.
Dravida Style
Dravida style advanced in the South, throughout the Chola Empire, between 9th–12th Century AD It is seen in the region between the Krishna and Kaveri rivers The two most important characteristics of Dravida temple architecture is:
Temples have more than 4 sides in the sanctum Tower or Vimana are pyramidals
In Dravida style temple is situated within an ambulatory hall There is multiple storey called Vimana, built above the Garbhagriha Pillars and pilasters are massively used in this architectural style. Circular passageway around the Garbhagriha (chief deity’s room) to permit devotees to do Pradakshina. Mandapa is a pillared hall with decoratively carved pillars The entire structure was encircled within a courtyard surrounded by high walls. Gopuram is the high gates in this courtyard which allow passage of people. The Kailasanatha temple is a major example of the Dravida Architecture.
Vesara Style
Vesara style is at times related to the region between the Krishna River and Vindhyas emerged during the early medieval period. Many temples in Central India and Deccan have used the Vesara style with regional modifications. It is a fusion style of both Nagara and Dravida styles of temple architecture Temples built but later Chalukyas of Kalyani and Hoysalas are considered as the examples of Vesara style. The height of the temple towers reduced even though the numbers of tiers are retained. This is attained by decreasing the height of individual tiers. The semi-circular erections of the Buddhist chaityas are also copied in this style. In this style structures are finely finished, figures are much decorated and well-polished.
The two major styles of temple architecture in the country are known as Nagara in the north and Dravidian in the south. The third style, Vesara Style, is fusion of Nagara and Dravidian style of architecture. The architectural principles of temples in India are described in Shilpa Shastras and Vastu Sastras.
- The culture has encouraged aesthetic independence to its temple builders, and its architects have sometimes exercised considerable flexibility in creative expression by adopting other perfect geometries and mathematical principles in Mandir construction to express the Hindu way of life.
- Candidates can find the general pattern of the UPSC Civil Service Exam by visiting the page.
Related Links
Major Indian Temple Architecture Styles
Which is the first famous temple in India?
List of Famous Temples in India
Famous Temples in India | |
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Temples in India | State |
Khajuraho Temple | Madhya Pradesh |
Siddhivinayak Temple | Maharashtra |
Konark Sun Temple | Odisha |
When was brick first used in India?
Middle East and South Asia – The earliest bricks were dried mudbricks, meaning that they were formed from clay-bearing earth or mud and dried (usually in the sun) until they were strong enough for use. The oldest discovered bricks, originally made from shaped mud and dating before 7500 BC, were found at Tell Aswad, in the upper Tigris region and in southeast Anatolia close to Diyarbakir,
- Mud brick construction was used at Catal Hüyük, from c.7,400 BC.
- Mud brick structures, dating to c.7,200 BC have been located in Jericho, Jordan Valley.
- These structures were made up of the first bricks with dimension 400x150x100 mm.
- Between 5000 and 4500 BC, Mesopotamia had discovered fired brick.
- The standard brick sizes in Mesopotamia followed a general rule: the width of the dried or burned brick would be twice its thickness, and its length would be double its width.
The South Asian inhabitants of Mehrgarh also constructed, air-dried mudbrick structures, between 7000 and 3300 BC. and later the ancient Indus Valley cities of Mohenjo-daro, Harappa, and Mehrgarh, Ceramic, or fired brick was used as early as 3000 BC in early Indus Valley cities like Kalibangan,
In the middle of the third millennium BC, there was a rise in monumental baked brick architecture in Indus cities. Examples included the Great Bath at Mohenjo-daro, the fire altars of Kaalibangan, and the granary of Harappa, There was a uniformity to the brick sizes throughout the Indus Valley region, conforming to the 1:2:4, thickness, width, and length ratio.
As the Indus civilization began its decline at the start of the second millennium BC, Harappans migrated east, spreading their knowledge of brickmaking technology. This led to the rise of cities like Pataliputra, Kausambi, and Ujjain, where there was an enormous demand for kiln-made bricks.
Where is Bhitargaon is at present Class 6?
This article is about the town in Uttar Pradesh. For the village in Maharashtra, see Bitargaon,
Bhitargaon temple in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India | |
Bhitargaon Shown within South Asia Show map of South Asia Show map of Uttar Pradesh Show all | |
Location | Bhitargaon, Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India |
---|---|
Coordinates | 26°12′38″N 80°16′34″E / 26.210556°N 80.276111°E Coordinates : 26°12′38″N 80°16′34″E / 26.210556°N 80.276111°E |
Type | Hindu Temple |
History | |
Founded | Late 5th century CE |
Cultures | Gupta Empire |
Bhitargaon is a town, near city of Kanpur in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its ancient Hindu temple, the largest Indian brick temple to survive from the time of the Gupta Empire, Despite being heavily restored, a number of original features remain. It is dated to the late 5th century.
Who built the 1st temple in India?
India is known to be the land of temples. From grand, ornate edifices to simple, austere shrines, these symbols of faith can be seen in almost every corner of the country today. But temples, as architectural establishments, have undergone a great deal of evolution over the years.
Before the magnificent stone structures came up, temples were built of perishable material like wood and timber. They were also constructed using bricks or were cut out of rocks. While there are remnants of a few structures, believed to be temples from as early as the 3rd and 2nd Century BCE, it wasn’t until the 3rd Century CE, in the Gupta age, that the temple building tradition gained prominence in India.
But do you know where the earliest surviving standing temple in India is? Or which is the oldest dateable sculpture of Ganesha in India? Let us take you on a tour of India’s ancient and earliest surviving temples. Temple No.17, Sanchi, 5th Century CE | Wikimedia Commons India’s Oldest Temple The town of Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh is synonymous with Sanchi Stupa, an icon of ancient Indian architecture and religion. So it might be a bit of a surprise to know that it also houses the oldest surviving temple in the country.
A small, nondescript shrine, known as Temple No.17 in the Sanchi Complex, it is dated to around early 5th century CE, during the reign of Gupta dynasty. It is believed that under the Guptas the free-standing stone temples in India evolved. During the same period, they also built the Udaigiri cave temples around 10 km away from Sanchi.
The evolution of temple architecture is quite visible between the caves of Udaigiri and the temple at Sanchi. Find out what these structures tell us about the history of temples in India in this video. The Earliest Surviving Temples Much before the temples came to exist in form, people had different ways to offer their prayers to their deities. This also included worshipping the icon or the image. Records suggest that yagyas, as a way of worship, were performed on fire altars.
Though these altars influenced the design and layout of the early temples, they themselves no longer remain. Many temples today are a testimony to the heights that temple architecture later achieved. It is thus difficult to imagine the simplicity of the earliest shrines but couched in that apparent simplicity are the basic elements that define the elaborate temples of the later, medieval period.
From the oldest surviving brick temple at Bhitargaon in Uttar Pradesh, belonging to the 5th Century CE, to the remnants of Ahom-period temple in Assam, let us explore some of the earliest temples in the country and see how temple architecture evolved from the 5th to the 7th centuries CE. Udayagiri Ganesha is considered the oldest representation of the elephant god in the country | Wikimedia Commons Tracing The First Ganesha While we do know about the earliest extant temples, did you know there also exists one of the earliest dateable idols? Worshipped as the god of ‘Auspicious Starts’ and ‘Remover of Obstacles’, Hindu god Ganesha finds a place in homes and hearts alike.
But it was in a cave on a hill, in Udayagiri in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, that the oldest dateable representation of the elephant god, Ganesha was found. This doesn’t mean that older images or representations of elephants have not been found. Harappan seals with elephants have been found but there are no traces of them being worshipped.
The 5th century CE, Gupta era image found in the cave no.6 of Udaygiri cave complex is of a portly Ganesha with the matrikas or mother goddesses next to him. Interestingly enough, another Ganesha sculpture at the Bhumara Shiva Temple in Satna district, also in Madhya Pradesh can also take the spot of being the earliest one, as it belongs to the same period. The Northern (upper) temple | Wikimedia Commons Badami and Pattadakal After the Guptas, the next milestone in temple architecture was achieved between the 6th to 8th Centuries CE. The cave temples of Badami along with the temples at Aihole and Pattadakal form one of the epicentres of Brahmanical/Hindu temple architecture in the Deccan.
The cave temples of Badami are located in the town of Badami in the north-central part of Karnataka. Formerly known as Vatapi, Badami was the capital of one of the greatest dynasties in Southern India- The Chalukyas. The Chalukyan kings adorned the capital with a number of beautiful rock-cut temples. These temples, dating between the 6th and 8th centuries CE, are a timeless monument to this dynasty.
Read about the wonders of Badami. Virupaksha temple in Dravidian style The group of temples, belonging to 7th and 8th Century CE, at Pattadakal represent a great blend of North and South Indian architecture.‘Pattadakal’ literally means ‘coronation stone’ and it was here that the kings of Chalukyan dynasty were anointed.
- The soil at Pattadakal, which also gives it the name of Kisuvolal, meaning the ‘valley of red soil’, or the sandstone from the hills that surround the region was used to build the many temples here.
- Spread across 5.56 hectares, there are ten major temples at Pattadakal – nine Hindu and one Jain.
- The Hindu temples are all dedicated to Lord Shiva and face east.
Explore the temples of Pattadakal with us. Cover Image: Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh
Which city is known as city of temple?
Answer:
Bhubaneshwar is called the temple city of India. This city is the capital of Orissa situated on the eastern side of the state Bhubaneshwar city also has historical importance. It used to be the capital city of the Kalinga dynasty. A place in Bhubaneshwar, known as Dhauli, is where the famous battle of Kalinga was fought between Emperor Ashoka and the Kalinga army. After this battle, Ashoka followed Buddhism The word Bhubaneshwar means ‘God’s World.’ It was named after Tribhuvaneswar which means ‘Lord of Three Worlds’ Bhubaneshwar has many sacred temples built in the Jain period. These make the surroundings more religious Near Bhubaneshwar, there are Udaygiri and Khandigiri caves from the Jain period that have the most ancient theatres In combination with Puri and Konark, Bhubaneshwar forms a ‘golden triangle’ in East India, which attracts tourists from all over the world It offers magnificent temples and architectural heritage for the tourists to visit
Where is the oldest temple in India?
Mundeshwari Temple Mundeshwari Temple of the temple. ReligionDistrict and Festivals,,,LocationLocationPaunra Pahad, Ramgarh villageStateCountry Location in Bihar Show map of India Mundeshwari Temple (Bihar) Show map of Bihar : ArchitectureCompleted635 CE Hindu inscriptions dated 4th century AD were found in the temple m.
SpecificationsTemple(s)OneElevation608 m (1,995 ft)Website The Mundeshwari Devi Temple (also spelled Mundesvari ) is a, located at Ramgarh Village, 608 feet (185 m) on the Mundeshwari Hills of near, in the of, It is an (ASI) protected monument since 1915. The ASI has recently dated the structure to 108 CE making it the oldest Hindu temple in the country.
An at the site indicates the dating of the temple at least to 625 CE and Hindu inscriptions dated 635 CE were found in the temple. It is an ancient temple dedicated to the worship of the goddess and is considered one of the oldest functional Hindu temples in India.
What does Gupta mean?
Gupta (/ˈɡuːptə/) is a common surname or last name of Indian origin. It is based on the Sanskrit word गोप्तृ goptṛ, which means ‘guardian’ or ‘protector’. According to historian R.C. Majumdar, the surname Gupta was adopted by several different communities in northern and eastern India at different times.
Who built Ajanta cave?
Ajanta Caves –
Location: Ajanta is a series of rock-cut caves in the Sahyadri ranges (Western Ghats) on Waghora river near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Number of Caves: There are a total of 29 caves (all buddhist) of which 25 were used as Viharas or residential caves while 4 were used as Chaitya or prayer halls. Time of Development
The caves were developed in the period between 200 B.C. to 650 A.D, The Ajanta caves were inscribed by the Buddhist monks, under the patronage of the Vakataka kings – Harishena being a prominent one. Reference of the Ajanta caves can be found in the travel accounts of Chinese Buddhist travellers Fa Hien (during the reign of Chandragupta II; 380- 415 CE) and Hieun Tsang (during the reign of emperor Harshavardhana; 606 – 647 CE).,
Painting
The figures in these caves were done using fresco painting, The outlines of the paintings were done in red colour. One of the striking features is the absence of blue colour in the paintings. The paintings are generally themed around Buddhism – the life of Buddha and Jataka stories.
UNESCO Site: The caves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983,
Which caves built by Gupta?
Other centres – Nalanda Gupta sculptural qualities tend to deteriorate with time, as in Nalanda in Bihar in the 6th century BCE, figures become heavier and tend to be made in metal. This evolution suggests a third school of Gupta art in the area Nalanda and Pataliputra, besides the two main centres of Mathura and Vanarasi.
- The colossal Sultanganj Buddha in copper from the area of Pataliputra is a uniquely large survival from this school, but typical in style.
- In the same monastery two similar but much smaller (and slightly later) figures in stone were found, one now on display in the British Museum,
- Udayagiri Caves/Vidisha The “first dated sculptures in a fully-fledged early Gupta style” come from the rock-cut Udayagiri Caves and the surrounding area near Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh,
Though the caves, all but one Hindu, are “of negligible importance architecturally”, around the cave entrances are a number of rock relief panels, some with large deities. They are in a relatively crude and heavy style, but often with a powerful impact; Harle describes the mukhalinga in Cave 4 as “pulsating with psychic power”.
The most famous is the 7 x 4 metre relief of Vishnu in the form of the giant boar Varaha, raising the earth from the primordial waters, watched by rows of much smaller gods, sages and celestial beings. One cave also has an extremely rare inscription relating a site to the Gupta court, recording the donation of a minister of Candragupta II,
The famous Iron pillar of Delhi is thought likely to have been originally set up outside the caves.
- Head of Vishnu from Vidisha near Udayagiri, Central India, 4th century
Eran Eran in Madhya Pradesh has a “pillar” or large single column dated 484/5 by an inscription of Buddhagupta, the only standing Gupta example, with two Garuda figures at the top (illustrated below). It had two large Varaha figures outside the ruined Gupta temple.
- The style of the sculpture is somewhat provincial.
- Still at the site is a huge and impressive boar on four legs, with no human characteristics, its body covered with rows of small figures representing the sages who clung to the hairs of Varaha to save themselves from the waters.
- Now moved to the university museum at Sagar is a figure with the same body and pose as that at Udayagiri, “one of the greatest of all Indian sculptures,
nothing can match the figure’s air of insolent triumph”. Both are dated to the late fifth century. Others The surviving sanctuary of the early 6th-century Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh has a typically fine doorway, and large relief panels on the other three walls.
- These are now external, but would originally gave given on to the covered ambulatory.
- Though “majestic”, these show “the sturdiness of early Gupta sculpture is yielding to a softer, more delicate and ultimately weaker style”.
- The row of men beneath the sleeping Vishnu have “stylized poses, probably imitated from the theatre”.
There are also other minor centres of Gupta sculpture, particularly in the areas of Dasapura and Mandasor, where a huge eight-faced mukhalinga (probably early 6th-century) found in the river has been reinstalled in the Pashupatinath Temple, Mandsaur, Very important rock-cut sites outside the Gupta Empire proper, to the south, are the Ajanta Caves and Elephanta Caves, both mostly created in the Gupta period, and the Ellora Caves which were probably begun around the end of it. As it was mainly restricted to the Gangetic plain, the vast Gupta territories included relatively few rock-cut sites with much sculpture.
The later Ajanta style of sculpture is somewhat heavy, but sometimes “awe-inspiring” in the large seated shrine Buddhas, but other smaller figures are often very fine, as is the ornamental carving on columns and door-frames. When combined with the painted walls, the effect can be considered over-decorated, and lacking “motifs on a larger scale to serve as focal points”.
The main internal carving was probably completed by 478, though votive figures to the sides of many cave entrances may be later. The Ajanta style is only seen at a few other sites nearby. After work ended there much of the skilled workforce, or their descendants, probably ended up working at Elephanta and then Ellora.
Unlike the series of caves side by side at Ajanta, the main interest at Elephanta is the largest cave, a huge Shiva temple, and above all the colossal triple- bust ( trimurti ) of Shiva, 18 feet (5.5 m) tall, which “because it is so amazingly skilfully placed in relation to the various external entrances,
receives exactly the amount of light necessary to make it look as if it is emerging from a black void, manifestation from the unmanifest”. Also from the Mumbai area, the Parel Relief or (Parel Shiva) is an important late Gupta monolithic relief of Shiva in seven forms.
- Vishnu, Central India, 5th century
Who built Ajanta and Ellora caves?
Ellora Caves –
- It is located nearly 100 Kms away from Ajanta caves in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra.
- The temples and monasteries extending over more than 2 km, were dug side by side in the wall of a high basalt cliff. The structures were excavated out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills.
- Ellora Caves are one of the largest rock-cut Hindu temple cave complexes in the world.
- Ellora caves are a group of 100 caves at the site of which 34 caves are open to the public,17 caves out of these 34 are themed around Hinduism, 12 caves depict the themes of Buddhist and 5 caves are of Jain faith.
- The set of caves in Ellora were developed during the period between the 5th century and 11th century A.D. by various guilds from Vidarbha, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
- Ellora caves are newer as compared to Ajanta caves. The chronology of constructions is as follows – 550 AD to 600 AD – Hindu Phase, 600 AD to 730 AD – Buddhist Phase, and 730 AD to 950 AD – Hindu and Jain Phase.
- The most remarkable of the Ellora cave temples is Kailasa Temple (Kailasanatha; cave 16), It features the largest single monolithic rock excavation in the world. It is named for the mountain in the Kailasa Range of the Himalayas where the Hindu god Shiva resides.
- The patronage of Ellora monuments includes Rashtrakutas, Kalachuris, Chalukyas and the Yadavas, The Rashtrakuta dynasty and Kalachuris constructed part of the Hindu and Buddhist caves of Ellora and the Yadava dynasty constructed a number of the Jain caves. They were built close to one another and illustrated the religious harmony that existed in ancient India,
- Also, go through the following links to prepare for the art and culture section of the UPSC exam even better –
- Aspirants can also check out various on the linked page.
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Ans. The paintings and sculptures in the caves of Ajanta and Ellora are inspired by Buddhism and its compassionate ethos. It was declared as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1983 as the paintings and sculptures of Ajanta and Ellora are considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art and have had a great influence in the development of art in India.
What did the Guptas built?
Gupta Architecture The Dynasty (4th-6th century) in North Central saw the first purpose-built (and also ) temples which evolved from the earlier tradition of rock-cut shrines. Adorned with towers and elaborate carvings, these temples were often dedicated to all the Hindu gods.
- Is very diverse in style, design and features.
- The diversity of Gupta buildings illustrates that Hindu was in its formative stage and was yet to arrive at the standardised situation of later centuries.
- Nevertheless, the influence of Gupta-era buildings on later Indian temple architecture is indisputable and continued right through to the Medieval period.
Unfortunately, relatively few of the large number of Gupta temples built have survived.
In which museum is famous Gupta sculpture?
Vishnu Keywords: Stone Sculpture of Lord Vishnu, Vaishnavism, Worship Publisher: National Museum, New Delhi Description: This beautifully carved sculpture of Vishnu is made of stone. It can be traced back to 5th century CE. Its height is 109.0 cm, width 67.0 cm and depth 22.0 cm.
- It is located at the Gallery of Gupta Art at the National Museum, New Delhi.
- Historical Significance :- Gupta age has often been referred to as the classical age of Indian art.
- This points to the refinement in art and architecture achieved in this period (300-600 CE).
- Particular credit is due to the perfect balance it achieved between the ideals of beauty, sensuality and spirituality.
Mathura and Sarnath were major centres of production during this period. In the Gupta art, Vishnu images appear in varied forms. Some show him in an anthropomorphic form of a Varaha or a boar, in others he is depicted in human form as seen in this sculpture.
- Gupta art shows a continuity from the Mathura and Gandhara art but incorporates it with new features of iconography drawn from Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions.
- Cultural Significance :- The sculpture of Vishnu may be seen as the result of the larger socio-religious trend of the emergence of Bhakti devotion and image worship during the Gupta period.
The Gupta period witnessed the beginning of construction of the temple complex which began to feature a sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) in which images were placed. Vaishnavism received unbound patronage from the Gupta rulers which contributed to its popularity in different parts of the kingdom.
- According to a Puranic text written during the reign of Chandragupta II, the king was endowed with the divine energy of Vishnu.
- His union with Shri Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth who was earlier popular with the Vaishyas and Shudras increased his popularity amongst lower social groups,
- Artistic Significance :- The sculpture is made of sandstone showing Vishnu in a human form.
He is wearing an elaborate headgear or kritimukuta. A sacred thread runs over the left side of his body and he is adorned with two necklaces, one of pearls and the other of semi precious beads coupled with armbands on both the arms. The facial features have been sculpted in a way to show a serene and reposed state of the deity with arched eyebrows, closed eyes, full lips and folds around the neck revealing sheer sculpting brilliance.
Spiritual Significance :- This period witnessed the rise of the Bhakti doctrine. Moreover, Vaishnavism as a cult developed with messianic and incarnational (avtarvada) ideology. According to some texts, Vishnu has thirty-nine incarnations, however, the standard number is believed to be ten. It usually includes Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar), Narasimha (man lion), Vamana (dwarf), Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha and Kalki.
Vishnu is believed to have arrived in these incarnations as a savior who will also appear at the end of the Kali age to overthrow mlecchas(foreigners and barbarians) and restore dharma.
Style :- Gupta Source: National Museum, New Delhi Type: Sculpture Received From: National Museum, New Delhi
DC Field | Value |
dc.coverage.spatial | Mathura, Uttar Pradesh |
dc.coverage.temporal | Ancient |
dc.description | This beautifully carved sculpture of Vishnu is made of stone. It can be traced back to 5th century CE. Its height is 109.0 cm, width 67.0 cm and depth 22.0 cm. It is located at the Gallery of Gupta Art at the National Museum, New Delhi. Historical Significance :- Gupta age has often been referred to as the classical age of Indian art. This points to the refinement in art and architecture achieved in this period (300-600 CE). Particular credit is due to the perfect balance it achieved between the ideals of beauty, sensuality and spirituality. Mathura and Sarnath were major centres of production during this period. In the Gupta art, Vishnu images appear in varied forms. Some show him in an anthropomorphic form of a Varaha or a boar, in others he is depicted in human form as seen in this sculpture. Gupta art shows a continuity from the Mathura and Gandhara art but incorporates it with new features of iconography drawn from Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions. Cultural Significance :- The sculpture of Vishnu may be seen as the result of the larger socio-religious trend of the emergence of Bhakti devotion and image worship during the Gupta period. The Gupta period witnessed the beginning of construction of the temple complex which began to feature a sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) in which images were placed. Vaishnavism received unbound patronage from the Gupta rulers which contributed to its popularity in different parts of the kingdom. According to a Puranic text written during the reign of Chandragupta II, the king was endowed with the divine energy of Vishnu. His union with Shri Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth who was earlier popular with the Vaishyas and Shudras increased his popularity amongst lower social groups, Artistic Significance :- The sculpture is made of sandstone showing Vishnu in a human form. He is wearing an elaborate headgear or kritimukuta. A sacred thread runs over the left side of his body and he is adorned with two necklaces, one of pearls and the other of semi precious beads coupled with armbands on both the arms. The facial features have been sculpted in a way to show a serene and reposed state of the deity with arched eyebrows, closed eyes, full lips and folds around the neck revealing sheer sculpting brilliance. Spiritual Significance :- This period witnessed the rise of the Bhakti doctrine. Moreover, Vaishnavism as a cult developed with messianic and incarnational (avtarvada) ideology. According to some texts, Vishnu has thirty-nine incarnations, however, the standard number is believed to be ten. It usually includes Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar), Narasimha (man lion), Vamana (dwarf), Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha and Kalki. Vishnu is believed to have arrived in these incarnations as a savior who will also appear at the end of the Kali age to overthrow mlecchas(foreigners and barbarians) and restore dharma. Style :- Gupta |
dc.source | National Museum, New Delhi |
dc.format.extent | H 109 x W 69 x D 22 cm |
dc.format.mimetype | image/jpg |
dc.publisher | National Museum, New Delhi |
dc.subject | Stone Sculpture of Lord Vishnu, Vaishnavism, Worship |
dc.type | Sculpture |
dc.format.medium | image |
dc.format.material | Sandstone |
table>
Vishnu
Which temple is the finest example of Gupta art?
Gupta Period Art & Architecture | IAS GYAN UPSC
Sculptures of Gupta Period Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended. Introduction
The foundation of the Gupta empire in the 4th century A.D. marks the beginning of another era. The Gupta monarchs were powerful upto the 6th cenutry in North India. Art, science and literature flourished greatly during their time. The iconographic canons of Brahmanical, Jain and Buddhist divinities were perfected and standardized, which served as ideal models of artistic expression for later centuries, not only in India but also beyond its border.
It was an age of all round perfection in domestic life, administration, literature, as seen in the works of Kalidasa, in art creations and in religion and philosophy, as exemplified in the wide-spread Bhagavata cult, which identified itself with an intensive cult of beauty. The Gupta period saw the mighty upsurge of national art,
This period is popularly known as the Golden Age in the history of India, The famous Gupta emperors were Samudra Gupta who ruled in 325-375 CE, Chandragupta Vikramaditya 376 -413 CE, and Kumara Gupta 413 – 455 CE, Indian literature, religion, art and literature attained the great height of their glory.
The Gupta art and culture not only spread to every nook and corner of India but also reached the Himalayan region and Central Asia, This cultural phase extended towards the south-east across the ocean into the islands of Indones ia or what was known at that time as Dvipantara, This cultural development was due to economic prosperity.
This had a direct relation on the spirituality, which India had not seen before. The 4 th to 6 th century CE was an age of all-round perfection in domestic, administrative and cultural life in India. In literature, this period has produced the great poet Kalidasa.
- Art creation had a great influence of religion.
- The Bhagavata movement, faith in Krishna as a child and god was widespread and supported a cult of beauty and aesthetics,
- It promoted the building of temples, creating images in clay, stone and metal,
- Buddhism was equally patronized as we can see in the artistic activities in Ajanta.
Sculptural Art The renowned Gupta sculptural style appears to have grown out of the Kushanstyle. In Mathura, art had already flourished in Indian style, which was touched with refinement in all aspects under the patronage of the illustrious Gupta rulers.
The Gupta period (4th – 6 th Century CE) marks the bright period of art in India. Gupta art is marked by a high aesthetic sense and discipline. The main centres of Buddhist art during this period were Mathura, Sarnath and Nalanda in the north. The Buddhist images of Mathura and Samath are some of the best specimens of Indian art, never equaled by any art creations oflater period.
The other places where we get to see Gupta sculptures are the Vishnu sculptures in Udayagiri rock-cut Caves, Dhamek stupa at Samath, Bhitargaon, Buddhist caves in Ajanta, Ahichchattra, and Dasavatara Temple in Deogarh, A geographical survey of Gupta art reveals that almost every centre received the flow of the essence of golden age.
- It was a special temperament to create anything good and perfect in quality and content.
- Art in Gupta period achieved classical status.
- Many texts were return and used as module for creating art works.
- The dynasties which ruled after the Gupta age in north and south India imbibed the artistic elements of Gupta age and continued the tradition of idealistic beauty.
Relief sculptures We find many sculptures done in high relief. In Ajanta, the rock surface was sophisticatedly treated with the Buddhist theme and motifs in high relief. The relief was executed with utmost skills. The halo of Buddha, the decorative elements on the large size sculptures and stupas show the mastery of artists over the stone carving.
- Bas-Relief Since the sculptures at Ajanta were carved in impressive size, the sculptors followed the bas-relief technique.
- The Buddha images and stupa decorations are carved in live rock with three fourths of the image emerging out.
- Rounded Sculpture: For the first time the Hindu gods and subjects were carved in rounded shapes during Gupta period.
In the Udayagiri Rock-cut architecture, a monolithic Varaha image with all details is carved. In the Dasavatara temple, full length sculptures of Vishnu are carved in round. The tree dimensional effect is achieved in all rounded sculptures of Gupta age. Stylistic Features
The delicate folds of the transparent garment adorning the Gupta figures were done in a beautiful style. The profusely decorated halo is another special feature of the art of the Gupta figure. The relief work reaches perfection here. The delicate modeling of forms with meditative repose rendered the Buddha and Bodhisattva figures of the Gupta period most attractive. The Gupta figures are carved with elaborately carved ornamental details which make the divine figures very special in appearance. The art of terracotta and casting figures in stucco reached its zenith in this period. The artist tried clay figurines on a small scale whereas the stucco figurines are in large dimensions. The terracotta figurines were used in the brick temples. These figurines were of great variety and beauty. Gupta art is beautiful in both outer form and inner inspiration. Beauty and virtue served as ideals of the age. Refinement was the order of the day. Decoration was the necessary feature of the Gupta sculpture. But they never over decorated their figures or images. They maintained harmony of decoration, form and content which is the best quality of a good art. The Gupta figures are large in proportion but extremely light in visual perception, They appear to be floating in air. They are marked by the sense of weightlessness. The eyes of Gupta sculptures are beautifully shaped half closed, in yogic posture. The face is generally oval shaped with sharp features. The overall treatment of the figures is highly idealized, evoking serenity. The drapery is light and clings to the body, exposing the softness of the body. The Gupta artists showed an equal ingenuity in the carving of metal images also. The bronze Buddha image from Sultanganj and also one from Dhanesar Khera together with a number of specimens found in north-western part of India are excellent specimens testifying to the skill and ability of the Gupta metal carvers.
Representational Examples Standing Buddha from Saranath This is an exclusive figure and a masterpiece of Gupta art. It is in the collection of National Museum, Delhi. The large size halo gives a great visual impact. A number of lesser size images of similar features are found in Sarnath and have been categorised as ‘wet Buddhas’. Buddha in preaching mode This seated Buddha made in Chunar sand stone is in the collection of the Sarnath museum. Buddha is in a preaching attitude known as Dharmachakra mudra. His clothing is only suggested through hemlines. The halo has special carving which is repeated on the throne beautifully.
The river Goddess Ganga This is an exclusive female figure of Gupta period (Later the images of Ganga and Yamuna flanking the door way of the temples become common feature all over India). She stands on the crocodile to show her presence in water. The figure is more realistic and stands in tribhanga.
Vishnu reclining – as anantashayi: Dasavatara Temple Deogarh In this sculpture the Buddhist narrative feature is adopted for the first time in all its detaiL Lord Vishnu, one of the Trimurtis is portrayed as reclining on a giant serpent with several hoods.
He is the Preserver of the world order and plans for its execution. The world around him is in action. Brahma rising from umbilical cord of Vishnu is associated with the celestials; Lakshmi seated on the extreme corner and below a group of celestials are guarding the abode of Vishnu. This is an iconographic presentation of the Vishnu theme.
The artist has composed all the figures in upper, middle and lower registers. It stands as the first and best example for the Hindu theme in sculpture. Other characteristics One of the main features of the Gupta sculptures is the balance that has been achieved by the artist between the beautiful poses and the spiritual expressions, The Gupta sculptures presented the human figures at their best. Whether they were spiritual or mythical, the human figures displayed elements of robustness and lively.
Apart from the human and religious sculptures, terracotta sculpture and decorative sculptures also have well defined human forms. The other recurrent features included thick floral sculptures, carved scrolls, animal figures and others. Apart from the rock cut sculptures the Gupta artists were equally adept in working on metals.
The iron pillars at Delhi are an instance for this kind of sculpture, The predominant style which was followed by the artists was “cire perdue”. In this process the copper statues were cast on a large scale. A copper image of Lord Buddha cast in Nalanda, which was 80 feet high, is worth mentioning.
The art and architecture of the Gupta period have been forever engraved on the walls of the Ajanta caves, Apart from the sculptures these caves are also famous for their wall paintings. Speaking about the religious sculptures, those deities were carved out of stone which the human eyes have never before beheld.
The descriptions of such Gods and Goddesses were heard of but they existed only in the imagination. It is always a challenge to present gods and goddesses in a human form as the sanctity of these deities had to be kept intact. The expressions on the faces of such sculptures were devoid of any material pleasure.
- The expressions on these idols were undisturbed by the worldly affairs.
- The apparels were presented by the series of folds carved on the figure of the deities yet the elegant forms were not hidden under these clothes.
- Such sculpted figures are widely found in Mathura.
- This rock architecture in Mathura is quite well known.
The sculptures created during the Gupta period were perfect, without any blemishes. In fact according to historical evidences the artists followed the science of ‘chitra. ‘ The immediate events inspired the artists to a large extent, for example, the seated Buddha at Sarnath delivering a sermon.
- Another feature of Gupta sculpture is the cave that was carved within the hills.
- The caves were the perfect places for the deities to reside as there is tranquillity within these structures.
- For instance, Elephanta Caves also exhibited spectacular Gupta sculpture.
- The religious tolerance of the Gupta kings is evident from the fact that there were Hindu and Jain sculptures as well.
The Hindu sculptures at Udaigiri were made out of wood, One of the most outstanding sculptures at Udaigiri Caves is the ‘Varaha’ avatar of Lord Vishnu, It is represented with a head of a boar (varaha) and a human (nar) body. This image has its roots in the Indian mythological tales.
This bas relief measures 22 feet by 12 feet, The entire mythical event is presented in details in Udaigiri. These caves are also famous for the iconography of Mahishasuramardini and one-faced linga or Ekmukhalinga, The Gupta sculptures also drew heavily from the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, Snakes were an essential feature of Gupta sculpture, particularly during the 5th century.
One will notice the presence of some serpent hoods emerging from ‘naginis’ and ‘nagarajas’, from the upper part of a pillar in the area of Firozpur. Other dominant architectures from the Gupta Empire included the rock cut temples, chaityas, stupas and others.
During this age the square ‘Garbhagriha’ emerged with pillars in the temples, The temple walls were ornamented with the sculptures of celestial beings, animal forms, deities and their consorts, couples and the everyday themes included dancers, musicians, military processions, scenes from royal court, apsaras and others.
Eroticism was also a popular feature of Gupta sculptures, The interiors of Vaishnavite Tigawa Temple at Jabalpur, Dasavatara Temple at Deogarh and Bhitargaon Temple all of which are located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh are excellent specimens of the sculpture prevalent during the Gupta age.
Where is Bhitargaon is at present Class 6?
This article is about the town in Uttar Pradesh. For the village in Maharashtra, see Bitargaon,
Bhitargaon temple in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India | |
Bhitargaon Shown within South Asia Show map of South Asia Show map of Uttar Pradesh Show all | |
Location | Bhitargaon, Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India |
---|---|
Coordinates | 26°12′38″N 80°16′34″E / 26.210556°N 80.276111°E Coordinates : 26°12′38″N 80°16′34″E / 26.210556°N 80.276111°E |
Type | Hindu Temple |
History | |
Founded | Late 5th century CE |
Cultures | Gupta Empire |
Bhitargaon is a town, near city of Kanpur in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its ancient Hindu temple, the largest Indian brick temple to survive from the time of the Gupta Empire, Despite being heavily restored, a number of original features remain. It is dated to the late 5th century.
Which of the following stupa was constructed in the Gupta period?
The Chaukhandi Stupa was built during the Gupta period (4th and 5th century CE) and is believed to mark the place where the Buddha first met a group of five ascetics (who were later to become his first disciples).
Which temple is the finest example of Gupta art?
Gupta Period Art & Architecture | IAS GYAN UPSC
Sculptures of Gupta Period Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended. Introduction
The foundation of the Gupta empire in the 4th century A.D. marks the beginning of another era. The Gupta monarchs were powerful upto the 6th cenutry in North India. Art, science and literature flourished greatly during their time. The iconographic canons of Brahmanical, Jain and Buddhist divinities were perfected and standardized, which served as ideal models of artistic expression for later centuries, not only in India but also beyond its border.
It was an age of all round perfection in domestic life, administration, literature, as seen in the works of Kalidasa, in art creations and in religion and philosophy, as exemplified in the wide-spread Bhagavata cult, which identified itself with an intensive cult of beauty. The Gupta period saw the mighty upsurge of national art,
This period is popularly known as the Golden Age in the history of India, The famous Gupta emperors were Samudra Gupta who ruled in 325-375 CE, Chandragupta Vikramaditya 376 -413 CE, and Kumara Gupta 413 – 455 CE, Indian literature, religion, art and literature attained the great height of their glory.
The Gupta art and culture not only spread to every nook and corner of India but also reached the Himalayan region and Central Asia, This cultural phase extended towards the south-east across the ocean into the islands of Indones ia or what was known at that time as Dvipantara, This cultural development was due to economic prosperity.
This had a direct relation on the spirituality, which India had not seen before. The 4 th to 6 th century CE was an age of all-round perfection in domestic, administrative and cultural life in India. In literature, this period has produced the great poet Kalidasa.
Art creation had a great influence of religion. The Bhagavata movement, faith in Krishna as a child and god was widespread and supported a cult of beauty and aesthetics, It promoted the building of temples, creating images in clay, stone and metal, Buddhism was equally patronized as we can see in the artistic activities in Ajanta.
Sculptural Art The renowned Gupta sculptural style appears to have grown out of the Kushanstyle. In Mathura, art had already flourished in Indian style, which was touched with refinement in all aspects under the patronage of the illustrious Gupta rulers.
The Gupta period (4th – 6 th Century CE) marks the bright period of art in India. Gupta art is marked by a high aesthetic sense and discipline. The main centres of Buddhist art during this period were Mathura, Sarnath and Nalanda in the north. The Buddhist images of Mathura and Samath are some of the best specimens of Indian art, never equaled by any art creations oflater period.
The other places where we get to see Gupta sculptures are the Vishnu sculptures in Udayagiri rock-cut Caves, Dhamek stupa at Samath, Bhitargaon, Buddhist caves in Ajanta, Ahichchattra, and Dasavatara Temple in Deogarh, A geographical survey of Gupta art reveals that almost every centre received the flow of the essence of golden age.
It was a special temperament to create anything good and perfect in quality and content. Art in Gupta period achieved classical status. Many texts were return and used as module for creating art works. The dynasties which ruled after the Gupta age in north and south India imbibed the artistic elements of Gupta age and continued the tradition of idealistic beauty.
Relief sculptures We find many sculptures done in high relief. In Ajanta, the rock surface was sophisticatedly treated with the Buddhist theme and motifs in high relief. The relief was executed with utmost skills. The halo of Buddha, the decorative elements on the large size sculptures and stupas show the mastery of artists over the stone carving.
- Bas-Relief Since the sculptures at Ajanta were carved in impressive size, the sculptors followed the bas-relief technique.
- The Buddha images and stupa decorations are carved in live rock with three fourths of the image emerging out.
- Rounded Sculpture: For the first time the Hindu gods and subjects were carved in rounded shapes during Gupta period.
In the Udayagiri Rock-cut architecture, a monolithic Varaha image with all details is carved. In the Dasavatara temple, full length sculptures of Vishnu are carved in round. The tree dimensional effect is achieved in all rounded sculptures of Gupta age. Stylistic Features
The delicate folds of the transparent garment adorning the Gupta figures were done in a beautiful style. The profusely decorated halo is another special feature of the art of the Gupta figure. The relief work reaches perfection here. The delicate modeling of forms with meditative repose rendered the Buddha and Bodhisattva figures of the Gupta period most attractive. The Gupta figures are carved with elaborately carved ornamental details which make the divine figures very special in appearance. The art of terracotta and casting figures in stucco reached its zenith in this period. The artist tried clay figurines on a small scale whereas the stucco figurines are in large dimensions. The terracotta figurines were used in the brick temples. These figurines were of great variety and beauty. Gupta art is beautiful in both outer form and inner inspiration. Beauty and virtue served as ideals of the age. Refinement was the order of the day. Decoration was the necessary feature of the Gupta sculpture. But they never over decorated their figures or images. They maintained harmony of decoration, form and content which is the best quality of a good art. The Gupta figures are large in proportion but extremely light in visual perception, They appear to be floating in air. They are marked by the sense of weightlessness. The eyes of Gupta sculptures are beautifully shaped half closed, in yogic posture. The face is generally oval shaped with sharp features. The overall treatment of the figures is highly idealized, evoking serenity. The drapery is light and clings to the body, exposing the softness of the body. The Gupta artists showed an equal ingenuity in the carving of metal images also. The bronze Buddha image from Sultanganj and also one from Dhanesar Khera together with a number of specimens found in north-western part of India are excellent specimens testifying to the skill and ability of the Gupta metal carvers.
Representational Examples Standing Buddha from Saranath This is an exclusive figure and a masterpiece of Gupta art. It is in the collection of National Museum, Delhi. The large size halo gives a great visual impact. A number of lesser size images of similar features are found in Sarnath and have been categorised as ‘wet Buddhas’. Buddha in preaching mode This seated Buddha made in Chunar sand stone is in the collection of the Sarnath museum. Buddha is in a preaching attitude known as Dharmachakra mudra. His clothing is only suggested through hemlines. The halo has special carving which is repeated on the throne beautifully.
The river Goddess Ganga This is an exclusive female figure of Gupta period (Later the images of Ganga and Yamuna flanking the door way of the temples become common feature all over India). She stands on the crocodile to show her presence in water. The figure is more realistic and stands in tribhanga.
Vishnu reclining – as anantashayi: Dasavatara Temple Deogarh In this sculpture the Buddhist narrative feature is adopted for the first time in all its detaiL Lord Vishnu, one of the Trimurtis is portrayed as reclining on a giant serpent with several hoods.
He is the Preserver of the world order and plans for its execution. The world around him is in action. Brahma rising from umbilical cord of Vishnu is associated with the celestials; Lakshmi seated on the extreme corner and below a group of celestials are guarding the abode of Vishnu. This is an iconographic presentation of the Vishnu theme.
The artist has composed all the figures in upper, middle and lower registers. It stands as the first and best example for the Hindu theme in sculpture. Other characteristics One of the main features of the Gupta sculptures is the balance that has been achieved by the artist between the beautiful poses and the spiritual expressions, The Gupta sculptures presented the human figures at their best. Whether they were spiritual or mythical, the human figures displayed elements of robustness and lively.
Apart from the human and religious sculptures, terracotta sculpture and decorative sculptures also have well defined human forms. The other recurrent features included thick floral sculptures, carved scrolls, animal figures and others. Apart from the rock cut sculptures the Gupta artists were equally adept in working on metals.
The iron pillars at Delhi are an instance for this kind of sculpture, The predominant style which was followed by the artists was “cire perdue”. In this process the copper statues were cast on a large scale. A copper image of Lord Buddha cast in Nalanda, which was 80 feet high, is worth mentioning.
- The art and architecture of the Gupta period have been forever engraved on the walls of the Ajanta caves,
- Apart from the sculptures these caves are also famous for their wall paintings.
- Speaking about the religious sculptures, those deities were carved out of stone which the human eyes have never before beheld.
The descriptions of such Gods and Goddesses were heard of but they existed only in the imagination. It is always a challenge to present gods and goddesses in a human form as the sanctity of these deities had to be kept intact. The expressions on the faces of such sculptures were devoid of any material pleasure.
The expressions on these idols were undisturbed by the worldly affairs. The apparels were presented by the series of folds carved on the figure of the deities yet the elegant forms were not hidden under these clothes. Such sculpted figures are widely found in Mathura. This rock architecture in Mathura is quite well known.
The sculptures created during the Gupta period were perfect, without any blemishes. In fact according to historical evidences the artists followed the science of ‘chitra. ‘ The immediate events inspired the artists to a large extent, for example, the seated Buddha at Sarnath delivering a sermon.
Another feature of Gupta sculpture is the cave that was carved within the hills. The caves were the perfect places for the deities to reside as there is tranquillity within these structures. For instance, Elephanta Caves also exhibited spectacular Gupta sculpture. The religious tolerance of the Gupta kings is evident from the fact that there were Hindu and Jain sculptures as well.
The Hindu sculptures at Udaigiri were made out of wood, One of the most outstanding sculptures at Udaigiri Caves is the ‘Varaha’ avatar of Lord Vishnu, It is represented with a head of a boar (varaha) and a human (nar) body. This image has its roots in the Indian mythological tales.
- This bas relief measures 22 feet by 12 feet,
- The entire mythical event is presented in details in Udaigiri.
- These caves are also famous for the iconography of Mahishasuramardini and one-faced linga or Ekmukhalinga,
- The Gupta sculptures also drew heavily from the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata,
- Snakes were an essential feature of Gupta sculpture, particularly during the 5th century.
One will notice the presence of some serpent hoods emerging from ‘naginis’ and ‘nagarajas’, from the upper part of a pillar in the area of Firozpur. Other dominant architectures from the Gupta Empire included the rock cut temples, chaityas, stupas and others.
- During this age the square ‘Garbhagriha’ emerged with pillars in the temples,
- The temple walls were ornamented with the sculptures of celestial beings, animal forms, deities and their consorts, couples and the everyday themes included dancers, musicians, military processions, scenes from royal court, apsaras and others.
Eroticism was also a popular feature of Gupta sculptures, The interiors of Vaishnavite Tigawa Temple at Jabalpur, Dasavatara Temple at Deogarh and Bhitargaon Temple all of which are located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh are excellent specimens of the sculpture prevalent during the Gupta age.