The correct option is Steatite.
Explanation
The "Bearded Man," often interpreted as a Priest-King, is a significant stone sculpture excavated from Mohenjodaro during the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC). It serves as a primary example of the stone carving skills prevalent during the mature Harappan phase.
Detailed Analysis
- Steatite (Correct): The sculpture is carved from steatite (soapstone). It depicts a figure with a well-groomed beard, a fillet around the head, and a shawl draped over the left shoulder decorated with a trefoil pattern. The eyes are elongated and half-closed, suggesting a meditative state.
- Terracotta (Incorrect): While terracotta was widely used in the IVC for making toys, animal figures, and "Mother Goddess" figurines, it was not the material used for this specific high-status bust.
- Red Sandstone (Incorrect): The famous "Male Torso" sculpture, which features socket holes for attaching limbs, was found at Harappa and is made of red sandstone.
- Bronze (Incorrect): The "Dancing Girl" figurine, discovered at Mohenjodaro, is the most prominent example of metalwork from this period and is made of bronze using the lost-wax (cire perdue) technique.
Key Takeaway
Steatite is the material of the "Bearded Man" (Mohenjodaro), Bronze is used for the "Dancing Girl" (Mohenjodaro), and Red Sandstone is used for the "Male Torso" (Harappa).