The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Amaravati Stupa, located in the Andhra region (Guntur district), is a masterpiece of the Vengi or Andhra school of art. Flourishing primarily under the patronage of the Satavahanas and later the Ikshvakus (circa 2nd century BCE to 3rd century CE), it is constructed using distinctive white limestone.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The Amaravati Stupa did not lack a pradakshinapatha. It featured a prominent circumambulatory path enclosed by a magnificent, highly sculpted vedika (railing). This path allowed devotees to perform ritual circumambulation around the sacred structure.
- Statement 2 is Correct. A unique architectural feature of the Amaravati Stupa is that the domical structure (anda) was covered with relief sculptural slabs. Unlike the plain masonry domes seen at Sanchi, the drum and the lower portion of the dome at Amaravati were adorned with carved panels depicting narratives from the Buddha's life and Jataka tales.
- Statement 3 is Correct. The artistic development at Amaravati occurred in phases. The early phase (circa 2nd-1st century BCE) was strictly aniconic, representing the Buddha through symbols such as the Bodhi tree, footprints, the wheel (Dharmachakra), or an empty throne. The anthropomorphic (human) representation of the Buddha was introduced in the later phases (circa 1st-2nd century CE).
Key Takeaway: The Amaravati Stupa is characterized by its intricate relief work on the dome slabs, the use of white limestone, and the historical transition from aniconic symbols to iconic Buddha images within the same site.