The correct option is Uttar Pradesh.
Explanation
The Gupta period (c. 4th-6th century CE) is often regarded as the "Golden Age" of Indian art, characterized by a high degree of refinement in sculpture and metallurgy. While stone sculptures from Mathura and Sarnath are widely celebrated, the period also produced exquisite metal images using the cire perdue (lost-wax) technique.
Detailed Analysis
The bronze image of the Buddha from Dhanesar Khera is a significant archaeological find located in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
- Location: Dhanesar Khera is situated in the Banda district of Uttar Pradesh.
- Style and Period: The statue belongs to the Gupta period. Stylistically, it reflects the influence of the Mathura school of art. This is evident in the treatment of the drapery (robes), which is depicted with schematic, rhythmic folds.
- Comparison: This stands in contrast to the Sarnath style of the same period, where the drapery is typically shown as transparent and clinging to the body without prominent folds (wet drapery style).
- Significance: Along with the famous Sultanganj Buddha (found in Bihar), the Dhanesar Khera image provides crucial evidence of the widespread excellence of Gupta metal casting traditions across the Gangetic plains.
Key Takeaway: The Dhanesar Khera bronze Buddha is a Gupta-period artifact found in Uttar Pradesh, notable for showcasing the Mathura style of drapery folds in metal sculpture.