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Post-Mauryan sculptures refer to the artistic creations produced in India after

the decline of the Maurya Empire, which lasted from approximately 322 BCE to
185 BCE. The post-Mauryan period witnessed a significant evolution in
sculptural styles and iconography.

key features and developments in post-Mauryan sculptures:

1. Regional Styles: Post-Mauryan sculptures exhibited a greater regional


diversity compared to the uniformity of Mauryan art. Different regions,
such as Mathura, Gandhara, and Amaravati, developed their distinct
sculptural styles influenced by local traditions and foreign influences.

2. Mathura School: The Mathura region, located in present-day Uttar


Pradesh, became a prominent center for sculptural production. The
Mathura school of art flourished during the Kushan period (1st-3rd
century CE) and produced sculptures primarily in red sandstone. The
sculptures focused on the depiction of Hindu deities, especially Krishna,
and emphasized sensuousness and fluidity of forms.

3. Gandhara School: The Gandhara region, situated in present-day Pakistan


and Afghanistan, witnessed the influence of Greco-Roman and
Hellenistic artistic traditions. Gandharan sculptures, created between the
1st and 5th centuries CE, combined Indian iconography with classical
aesthetics. These sculptures often depicted Buddha and bodhisattvas in a
Graeco-Roman style, characterized by naturalistic anatomy, drapery, and
idealized features.

4. Amaravati School: The Amaravati region, located in present-day Andhra


Pradesh, was known for its Buddhist sculptures during the Satavahana
period (1st-3rd century CE). The Amaravati school of art produced large
stone reliefs narrating the life and teachings of the Buddha. The
sculptures featured intricate detailing, delicate ornamentation, and a high
level of emotional expression.

5. Iconography: Post-Mauryan sculptures expanded the range of subjects


and iconographic themes. While Buddha and Buddhist deities continued
to be prominent, Hindu gods and goddesses, such as Vishnu, Shiva, and
Devi, gained more prominence. Various mythological narratives,
including scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, were also
depicted.

6. Material and Techniques: Sculptures were predominantly carved from


stone, including sandstone, schist, and limestone. Metal sculptures,
particularly bronze, were also created but are relatively fewer in number.
0The craftsmen employed techniques like relief carving, freestanding
statues, and the lost-wax casting method for metal sculptures.

Post-Mauryan sculptures represent a vibrant and diverse period in Indian art


history, showcasing the fusion of indigenous, Hellenistic, and regional
influences. These sculptures played a significant role in propagating religious
and philosophical ideas, providing insights into the sociocultural milieu of
ancient India.

"The Sculpture of India" by Stella Kramrisch is a comprehensive exploration of


the rich tradition of Indian sculpture. The book delves into the historical,
cultural, and artistic aspects of Indian sculpture, spanning a vast timeline from
ancient times to the medieval period.

Kramrisch provides an in-depth analysis of various sculptural styles, techniques,


and iconography found in different regions of India. She discusses the evolution
and influences that shaped Indian sculpture, including the indigenous Indus
Valley civilization, the rise of Buddhism and Jainism, and the impact of
Hinduism.

The book covers a wide range of sculptural subjects, from monumental rock-cut
caves and temple sculptures to smaller, portable objects such as statues and
reliefs. Kramrisch explores the symbolism, religious significance, and aesthetic
qualities of these sculptures, highlighting their spiritual and cultural importance.

Moreover, Kramrisch examines the technical aspects of Indian sculpture,


including the materials used, the carving techniques employed, and the stylistic
variations across different periods and regions. She provides insights into the
artistic principles and conventions that governed the creation of these
sculptures, as well as the social and religious contexts in which they were
produced.

"The Sculpture of India" is highly regarded as a seminal work in the field of


Indian art history. It offers readers a comprehensive overview of the diverse and
magnificent sculptural heritage of India, providing valuable insights into the
country's artistic traditions, religious practices, and cultural history.

Please note that if there is a specific book titled "Indian Sculpture" by Stella
Kramrisch that I am not aware of, the information provided above may not align
with that particular publication.

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