The 'Maheshmurti' sculpture at Elephanta is considered a masterpiece belonging to which chronological period?

Correct Option

The correct option is Sixth century CE.

Explanation

The Elephanta Caves (Gharapuri), located on an island off the coast of Mumbai, represent the zenith of rock-cut architecture in Western India. The caves are primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva and are renowned for their colossal sculptures, most notably the Maheshmurti (often referred to as Trimurti or Sadashiva).

Chronological Analysis

• Sixth century CE: Sixth century CE (Correct)
  Historical and stylistic evidence dates the excavation of the main cave at Elephanta to the mid-6th century CE. This period corresponds to the rule of the Kalachuri dynasty (specifically attributed to King Krishnaraja) or the Konkan Mauryas, who were feudatories or successors in the region following the Vakataka-Gupta age. The sculptural style reflects the mature classical tradition of the late Gupta period.
• Kushana: Kushana (Incorrect)
  The Kushana period (approx. 1st to 3rd century CE) is associated with the Gandhara and Mathura schools of art. This period predates the complex iconographic and architectural style seen at Elephanta.
• Mauryan: Mauryan (Incorrect)
  The Mauryan period (4th to 2nd century BCE) is characterized by highly polished monolithic pillars and early rock-cut caves (e.g., Barabar Caves). It is chronologically far removed from the Elephanta sculptures.
• Second century BCE: Second century BCE (Incorrect)
  This period corresponds to the early phase of rock-cut architecture (e.g., Bhaja, Pitalkhora) under the Sungas or early Satavahanas, which focused on Hinayana Buddhist themes and lacked the elaborate Brahmanical imagery found at Elephanta.

Key Takeaway

The Maheshmurti at Elephanta is a masterpiece of the mid-6th century CE (Post-Gupta/Kalachuri period), depicting Shiva in three aspects: Aghora (Destroyer), Tatpurusha (Preserver), and Vamadeva (Creator).