SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 15

Correct Answer

Iconography of Buddha and Hindu deities

Explanation

The Mathura school of sculpture, which flourished during the Kushana period (primarily 1st to 3rd century CE), is renowned for developing complex iconography for multiple religions simultaneously. Unlike the contemporary Gandhara school that focused heavily on Buddhist themes with Greek influence, the indigenous Mathura school produced early, definitive religious images for Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. Sculptors in Mathura pioneered the early representation of the Buddha in human form while simultaneously creating images of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Lakshmi, and Surya.

Key Points

The primary material used by the Mathura school was locally sourced mottled or spotted red sandstone, making its sculptures instantly recognizable.

The school was an indigenous development that evolved from the earlier Yaksha carving traditions, keeping it largely free from foreign Hellenistic or Greek artistic influences.

Images from this school are characterized by physical massiveness, robust bodies, a joyful facial expression, and drapery that clings closely to the body.

Important Questions and Answers

Question: Which specific stone material uniquely identifies sculptures of the Mathura school of art?

Answer: Sculptures of the Mathura school are uniquely identified by the use of spotted red sandstone.

Question: During the reign of which ancient Indian dynasty did the Mathura school of art reach its peak?

Answer: The Mathura school of art reached its peak under the patronage of the Kushana dynasty.