The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Chausa hoard, discovered in Bihar, is a significant collection of Jain bronze sculptures. These artifacts are crucial for understanding the development of metal casting and iconography in the Gangetic valley during the early historic period.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The Jain bronzes found at Chausa are historically dated to the Kushana Period (circa 2nd century CE), not the Gupta period. They represent an earlier phase of metal sculpture in Eastern India, preceding the stylistic refinements of the Gupta age.
- Statement 2 is Correct. These sculptures are renowned for their artistic style, which emphasizes a robust masculine human physique. The modeling of the body is characterized by broad shoulders and simplified muscles, lacking the elaborate ornamentation or the highly refined, spiritual serenity typical of later Gupta sculptures.
- Statement 3 is Correct. In terms of iconography, the Chausa bronzes display distinct features for different Tirthankaras. While most Tirthankaras are depicted with short curly hair, Rishabhanatha (Adinath) is identified by long hair strands falling over his shoulders, a convention followed in Jain art.
Key Takeaway: The Chausa bronzes are a landmark of Kushana period art in Bihar, distinguished by their focus on physical robustness and the specific iconographic trait of long hair for Adinath.