Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
I. The rich sculptural tradition of Mathura is distinguished by its principal medium, the white spotted red sandstone. II. The white spotted red sandstone is locally available in Mathura region.
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
Artistic traditions are often shaped by the physical geography and available natural resources of the region where they flourish.Explanation
The Mathura School of Art (Kushana period) is universally recognized for its use of a specific type of 'spotted red sandstone' from the nearby quarries of Sikri and Bharatpur. This stone became the signature material for their Buddha, Yaksha, and royal portraits.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement I is correct; the visual identity of Mathura art is inseparable from its mottled red stone medium.
Logic 2: Statement II is correct and provides the causal explanation; because the stone was locally abundant and easy to transport, it became the standard medium for the large-scale production of sculptures in the region.