|
|
| |
| Home » Hindu Sculptures of the Mauryan Empire » Pillars |
| |
Pillars |
|
|
Pillars and Stupas are a very important part of Hindu Sculptures of the Mauryan Empire. They define the development of Indian architecture during that period of time. The Mauryan empire is earmarked in Indian history for encouraging a new era in art and architectural fields. These architectural forms have been inspired by the Buddhist styles and reached the zenith of perfection during the reign of Ashoka.
|
Thinking of the pillars what comes foremost to the mind is the Ashoka pillar or the lion capital in Sarnath, which is also the National symbol of India. These pillars are the representations of the presence of the powerful Mauryan emperor. There are many such pillars erected across the northern part of India. These pillars have engravings of the teachings of Lord Buddha, known as the Edicts of Ashoka. The one which is located at Sarnath is the most impressive one. The actual Lion Capital of Sarnath has found place in the Museum in Sarnath. When the lion capital was retrieved from Sarnath it was found in disintegrated position, which has been joined and brought to a single piece.
The Lion Capitals usually had the following inclusions, which are symbolic of the four stages in the life of Buddha till he attained enlightenment:
Elephants: This represents the time when Buddha mother, queen Maya conceived her and dreamt of a white elephant.
Bull: This is considered to be the representative of Buddha being born in the month of Vesak, according to Buddhist calendar, which is also the Tuaran month. Bull is also considered to be the symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, as far as Hindu mythology goes.
Horse: The horse is a representation of the ride of Prince Gautama took on a horse after he decided to sacrifice the life of luxury in the palace of his father. The horse used in the lion capitals is similar to the horse that Buddha actually rode, which was known as Kanthaka.
Lion: This is the final stage in the life of Buddha when he had achieved enlightenment.
All these animals are also representatives of the various territories in the four directions in India. The horse represents the west, the elephant represents the east, Bull represents the south and lion is a symbol of the north. The lion Capitals are also symbolic of the secular character of India.
The location of these Pillars is mainly the Gangetic Plains. The pillars are carved in sandstones which are buff colored. Some of the beautiful sculptures are also found in Chunar excavation sites in Varanasi.
An in depth knowledge about these pillars is extremely necessary in understanding Mauryan architectural style. Hindusculptures.com gives you all the information you need on sculptures and pillars. |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
