The Gandhara School of art is the synthesis of:
U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1996
A. Indian and Persian Art
B. Indian and Chinese Art
C. Indian and Turk-Afghan Art
D. Indian and Greek Art
Answer: Indian and Greek Art
Option d is the correct answer.
The Gandhara School of art is a synthesis of Indian and Greek art. This school of art emerged during the reign of Kushana emperor Kanishka. It blended Greco-Roman artistic elements with Indian ideas and was closely associated with Mahayana Buddhism. The Bamiyan Buddha statues stand as prominent examples of the Gandhara style's fusion of these artistic influences.
Important Tips
Gandhara School of Art - Major Features:
Geographical Presence: Gandhara sculptures discovered in Taxila ruins and other ancient sites in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Subject Matter: Primarily Buddha images and relief sculptures capturing scenes from Buddhist literature.
Central Focus: Artistry centered on Lord Buddha and Bodhisattvas, deeply connected with Mahayana Buddhism, blending Indian ideas with distinct execution. The Bamiyan Buddha sculptures exemplify Gandhara style's brilliance
Prominent Sites: Flourished in regions such as Taxila, Peshawar, Begram, and Bamiyan.
Flourishing Period: Thrived from the 1st century BCE to the 4th century CE.
Themes and Expressions: Buddhist narratives strongly reflected in Gandhara art, with depictions like Buddha's mother resembling an Athenian matron. A blend of Eastern and Western aesthetics is seen, such as the portrayal of a Buddhist scene with Apollo-like facial features.