SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 10

Correct Answer

Greek

Explanation

The Gandhara art style, often referred to as Greco-Buddhist art, shows a significant influence of Greek (Hellenistic) artistic traditions. This style blends Indian Buddhist subjects with Western aesthetic techniques. In Gandhara sculptures, the human anatomy, the realistic drapery of clothes, and the facial features—such as wavy hair and idealized proportions—are modeled after Greek artistic principles, even while the content remains focused on Buddhist figures like the Bodhisattva.

Key Points

Gandhara art developed primarily in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent, in present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is known for depicting Buddha in human form for the first time. The influence of Greek gods, particularly Apollo, is evident in the representation of Buddha’s physical features and the artistic treatment of the statues.

Important Questions and Answers

Question: During which period did the Gandhara art style primarily flourish?

Answer: The Gandhara art style flourished mainly during the Kushan period, particularly under the reign of Kanishka.

Question: What is the main difference between the Gandhara and Mathura art styles?

Answer: The Gandhara style is heavily influenced by Greek techniques and used blue-grey schist, whereas the Mathura style is indigenous to India and primarily used spotted red sandstone.