In the Mathura School of Art, the early images of the Buddha were primarily modelled on the prototype of:

The correct option is Earlier Yaksha images.

Explanation

The Mathura School of Art, flourishing primarily during the Kushana period (1st-3rd century CE), represents a distinct indigenous development in Indian art. Unlike the contemporary Gandhara School, which incorporated foreign stylistic elements, the Mathura style evolved from earlier Indian sculptural traditions found in the Gangetic plain.

Detailed Analysis:

• Earlier Yaksha images is Correct: The early images of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas in the Mathura School were directly modeled on the Yaksha images (ancient folk deities) prevalent in the region. These figures are characterized by massive volume, broad shoulders, a prominent chest, and a stance of solidity and power. The stylistic continuity-visible in the transparent drapery and the physical proportions-links the colossal Yaksha statues (such as the Parkham Yaksha) to the early Mathura Buddhas.
• Hellenistic features is Incorrect: Hellenistic features, such as wavy hair, realistic anatomical musculature, and heavy drapery resembling a Roman toga, are the defining characteristics of the Gandhara School of Art. The early Mathura Buddha, in contrast, typically features a shaven head or a kapardin (coiled hair) style and wears a dhoti.
• Mauryan pillar capitals is Incorrect: Mauryan pillar capitals are famous for their animal motifs (lions, bulls) and the lustrous Mauryan polish. While Mauryan stone carving techniques provided a foundation for Indian sculpture, the anthropomorphic form of the Buddha was not derived from these architectural capitals.
• Parthian sculptural traditions is Incorrect: Parthian sculptural traditions influenced art in the Iranian and Gandharan regions (introducing elements like rigid frontality), but they were not the prototype for the indigenous iconography of the Mathura Buddha.

Key Takeaway: The Mathura School derived its Buddha prototype from the indigenous Yaksha figures (massive, earthy, spiritual), whereas the Gandhara School modeled its Buddha on Hellenistic prototypes (resembling Apollo).