[Solved] Animal Motifs on Harappan Seals | Horse Absence

Which one of the following animals is not depicted on the Harappan seal?

[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) Mains 2009]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Harappan seals used animal motifs for administrative, trade, and ritual purposes, reflecting the wildlife and domesticates of the era.

Authentic Source Evidence

Thousands of seals depict bulls, elephants, rhinos, and tigers. However, there is not a single uncontested depiction of a horse on any Harappan seal.

Analytical Breakdown

Horse (C): While some horse bones have been reported at Surkotada, the animal was never used as a motif in their sophisticated seal art.

Bull/Elephant (A/B): These were the most common motifs, symbolizing strength and authority.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What does the absence of the horse on seals suggest?"

It suggests that the horse was not an integral part of Harappan social, economic, or religious life, unlike in the subsequent Vedic period.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The choice of animals on seals provides a 'cultural signature' that distinguishes the Harappans from the horse-centered Vedic tribes."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Analysing authentic U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) Mainsprevious year questions is non-negotiable for serious aspirants. Thoroughly decoding past exam trends related to Harappan Art helps you understand the examiner's mindset. Mastering specific entities like Harappan seal animals and Horse in IVC builds the analytical intuition needed to clear the exam. Practice Previous Year Questions here →