The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The artisans of the Indus Valley Civilisation practiced bronze casting on a wide scale. They demonstrated advanced metallurgical skills, producing sculptures that included both human and animal forms using specific casting methods.
Statement 1 is Correct: The Harappans utilized the 'lost wax' technique (Cire Perdue) for making bronze statues. This process involved creating a wax model, covering it with clay, and heating it to melt the wax, thereby creating a mould. Molten bronze was then poured into the hollow mould to form the statue.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: Bronze casting was not confined to the major cities of Harappa and Mohenjodaro. It was a popular practice across various sites of the civilization. For example, a copper dog and bird were found at Lothal, and a bronze bull was discovered at Kalibangan. This indicates a widespread distribution of the craft.
Statement 3 is Correct: The practice was extensive, and the technique was employed to create a variety of subjects. The most famous specimen is the 'Dancing Girl' from Mohenjodaro. Additionally, numerous animal figures, such as the buffalo with its uplifted head and the humped bull, were produced using this technique.
Key Takeaway: The Harappans mastered the 'lost wax' technique to produce bronze sculptures across multiple sites (including Lothal and Kalibangan), creating diverse figures ranging from the iconic 'Dancing Girl' to various animals.