UPSC CDS 2014 (I)

Ashokan Iconography

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The only inscribed stone portrait of Emperor Ashoka has been found at

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept While Ashoka is immortalized through his edicts, physical depictions of him from his own era are virtually non-existent except for one unique archaeological find.

Explanation Excavations at Kanaganahalli (Sannati) in Karnataka revealed a limestone relief depicting a king with his queens. Crucially, it bears a Brahmi inscription reading 'Ranyo Ashoka' (King Ashoka), making it the only identified portrait of the monarch in stone.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Sanchi and Amaravati contain stupas and sculptures but lack a specifically labeled portrait of Ashoka.
Logic 2: The Kanaganahalli relief is unique because the inscription provides definitive identification of the figure depicted.

Active Recall

Question

In which modern state is Kanaganahalli located?

Answer

Karnataka.

Core Insight

The Kanaganahalli portrait is a rare bridge between the epigraphic record and the visual tradition of ancient Indian royalty.