The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Terracotta, meaning "baked earth," is a medium of art made from clay that is molded and then fired at high temperatures. Due to the abundance of riverine clay and the scarcity of stone in certain areas, terracotta has been a continuous tradition in Indian art from the Indus Valley Civilization to modern folk traditions, serving both utilitarian and architectural purposes.
Statement 1 is Correct:
Terracotta art fundamentally involves the process of baking clay to ensure hardness and durability. The firing process transforms the clay into a porous but rigid material that resists water and decay, allowing artifacts to survive for millennia.
Statement 2 is Incorrect:
Terracotta is not used exclusively for large architectural structures. While it has been employed in temple architecture (e.g., the terracotta temples of Bishnupur in West Bengal or the Bhitargaon temple of the Gupta period) primarily in regions lacking stone, its most common and historical usage is for small-scale objects. These include pottery, toys, figurines (such as the Mother Goddess of the Indus Valley), seals, beads, and votive offerings.
Statement 3 is Correct:
Terracotta art is geographically widespread across India. It is found in:
- Eastern India: West Bengal (Bankura horses) and Odisha.
- Southern India: Tamil Nadu (Aiyanar cult figures).
- North-East India: It is a significant craft in states like Assam (e.g., Asharikandi village is a major center) and Manipur, where it is used for pottery, dolls, and ritualistic items.
Key Takeaway:
Terracotta is a baked clay art form used for both architectural decoration (in stone-scarce regions like Bengal) and small figurines/pottery. It is a pan-Indian tradition found in diverse regions, including the North-East.