What are the development in art and architecture during the muryan period in ancient India
Answers
Stupas
Stupas are other prominent art forms built by Ashoka. It is believed that there were 84,000 stupas that were built to protect the remnants of Buddha.
Pottery
During the Mauryan Empire the art of pottery was at its zenith. The potters wheel has become universal by then. A special kind of pottery known as the Northern Black Polished Ware (NBP) is said to have been the trademark of Mauryan pottery. Made of fine alluvial clay, NBP was distinguishable from the other forms of pottery because of its unique sheen and brilliance. Most of the excavated Mauryan sites are full of terracotta objects of different sizes, including toys, primitive idols, ornaments and beads have been found in Taxila.
Coins
Copper and silver coins of different sizes, shapes and weights with punched symbols are specific to the Mauryan period. Elephant, mountains and tree in railing symbol were the most common symbols. Coins were often re-issued as some of these also had Shroff (money changer) marks on them.
Barabar Caves
The Barabar Caves are the most important legacy of the Mauryas. The caves are located at a distance of 19 miles from Bodh Gaya. The art of polishing was excellent during this period and the two sites having Barabar Caves have been polished just like glass mirrors.
Local sculptors who were not commissioned by the emperor had also created some of the most beautiful sculptures of that period. The female figure of Besnagar and the male figure of Parkham are examples of their art. The figures of stone elephant at Dhauli were again made by local artist.