The correct option is Mathura.
Explanation
The Parkham Yaksha is one of the earliest and most significant surviving examples of monumental stone sculpture in India. It represents the tradition of popular art (worship of Yakshas and Yakshinis) that existed alongside the court art of the Mauryan period.Detailed Analysis:
- Location: The colossal statue was discovered in the village of Parkham, located near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh. It is currently housed in the Mathura Museum.
- Artistic Features:
- The statue stands approximately 2.6 meters tall and is carved from grey sandstone.
- It is characterized by its massive build, stout physique, and a slight "Mauryan polish," though it lacks the anatomical refinement of later sculptures.
- The figure is identified as the Yaksha Manibhadra based on a Brahmi inscription on its pedestal.
- Historical Context: While often discussed under Mauryan art due to the polish and scale, stylistically it represents the transition from the Mauryan to the Shunga period (Post-Mauryan), marking the precursor to the renowned Mathura School of Art.
Key Takeaway:
The Parkham Yaksha is a colossal sandstone statue found at Mathura, representing the Mauryan period's popular art tradition (Yaksha cults).