RAS Mains 2024

Approach:

• Start with a brief introduction that sets the context for the Mathura and Gandhara schools.
• In the body, mention the features of each school into key points, covering materials, religious themes, style, and influences.
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction:

• The Mathura and Gandhara schools of art, patronized by the Kushanas and Sakas, thrived in present-day Uttar Pradesh and the Punjab region of Pakistan. These schools played a significant role in the development of Indian art during the early centuries CE. Their contributions are a blend of indigenous and foreign influences.

Body:

Mathura School of Art:

• Material: Sculptures were primarily made from red sandstone, sourced locally.
• Religious Diversity: The school produced art for Buddhism, Jainism, and Brahmanical faiths, reflecting religious tolerance.
• Themes: Artworks depicted Buddha, Jain Tirthankaras, and Hindu gods like Vishnu, Shiva, and Durga. It also featured scenes from daily life and nature.
• Style: Sculptures were life-like and three-dimensional, with rounded, realistic forms. Buddha idols were seen in both seated (Padmasana) and standing postures.
• Ruler Representation: Portraits of kings like Kanishka were found, with their attire influenced by Central Asian styles.

Gandhara School of Art:

• Material: Initially crafted from blue-grey schist stone, later stucco was used.
• Hellenistic Influence: The style reflected Greek and Roman art, evident in the draped garments, curly hair, and anatomical precision of the Buddha figures.
• Buddhist Themes: The focus was on Buddha and Bodhisattva sculptures, often illustrating scenes from Buddha’s life.
• Detailing: Intricate details in sculptures emphasized human anatomy and facial expressions.

Differences Between Mathura and Gandhara Art:

Aspect	Mathura Art	Gandhara Art
Area	Flourished in Mathura and Uttar Pradesh	Flourished in Afghanistan and northwest India
Time Period	1st century BC to 12th century AD	1st century BC to 5th century AD
Influence	Indigenous, no external influence	Strong influence from Greek and possibly Macedonian art
Religious Influence	Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism	Primarily Buddhist
Material	Red sandstone	Bluish-grey sandstone
Expression	Buddha depicted with a joyful expression, hand gestures like Abhayamudra	Buddha depicted with calmness

Conclusion:

Both schools significantly influenced Indian sculpture, with Mathura emphasizing indigenous and diverse religious expressions and Gandhara introducing Hellenistic influences. Together, they enriched India's artistic heritage, contributing to the evolution of Indian religious iconography and sculpture.