NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture — Chapter 4: Post-Mauryan Trends in Indian Art and Architecture

mcqeasy

Which material was primarily used for the sculpture of the Seated Buddha preaching the Dhamma, found at Sarnath?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

ARed granite
BBlack basalt
CBronze
DChunar sandstone

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is Chunar sandstone.

Explanation

The sculpture of the Seated Buddha preaching the Dhamma is a quintessential masterpiece of the Sarnath School of Art, which flourished during the Gupta Period (4th to 6th century CE). This school is renowned for its refinement, spiritual serenity, and the use of specific materials distinct from the earlier Mathura and Gandhara schools.

Detailed Analysis

Material Used: The Sarnath sculptures, including this famous seated Buddha, were primarily carved out of Chunar sandstone. This stone typically has a cream or buff color, allowing for a smooth and polished finish that characterizes Gupta art.
Comparison with Other Schools:
- Mathura School: Predominantly used spotted red sandstone.
- Gandhara School: Typically used bluish-grey schist or stucco.
- Amaravati School: Known for the use of white marble.
Artistic Features: The figure depicts the Buddha in the Dharmachakrapravartana Mudra (turning the Wheel of Law). The Sarnath style is distinct for its plain, transparent drapery covering both shoulders (without heavy folds) and an elaborately decorated halo behind the head.

Key Takeaway

Sarnath School of Art (Gupta Period) is identified by the use of Chunar sandstone, the "wet drapery" style (transparent clothing without folds), and a focus on inner spiritual calm.

Your note

More from Chapter 4: Post-Mauryan Trends in Indian Art and Architecture

Match the following Narratives with the Site where they are depicted: Narrative | Site 1. Queen Mayadevi’s Dream | Bharhut 2. Siege of Kushinara | Sanchi 3. Mara Vijaya | Ajanta 4. Ravana Shaking Mount Kailash | Ellora Select the correct answer using the code given below:

easy

Match the following Rulers/Dynasties with the regions they controlled in the post-Mauryan period: 1. Shungas : North and Central India 2. Satvahanas : Southern and Western India 3. Ikshavakus : Southern and Western India 4. Kushanas : North India Select the correct answer using the code given below:

easy

Which technique was used for the paintings at Bagh Caves? 1. The ground was prepared with reddish-brown gritty mud plaster. 2. Lime-priming was strictly avoided. 3. The paintings are executed in the true fresco technique. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

medium

The term 'Ushanisha' in the context of Buddha images refers to:

easy

The rock-cut cave at Kondivite in Maharashtra represents which unique architectural form?

hard

Keep practising Chapter 4: Post-Mauryan Trends in Indian Art and Architecture

Work through every question from this NCERT chapter.

Browse all NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture chapters

The correct option is Chunar sandstone.

Explanation

Detailed Analysis

Material Used: The Sarnath sculptures, including this famous seated Buddha, were primarily carved out of Chunar sandstone. This stone typically has a cream or buff color, allowing for a smooth and polished finish that characterizes Gupta art.
Comparison with Other Schools:
- Mathura School: Predominantly used spotted red sandstone.
- Gandhara School: Typically used bluish-grey schist or stucco.
- Amaravati School: Known for the use of white marble.
Artistic Features: The figure depicts the Buddha in the Dharmachakrapravartana Mudra (turning the Wheel of Law). The Sarnath style is distinct for its plain, transparent drapery covering both shoulders (without heavy folds) and an elaborately decorated halo behind the head.

Key Takeaway

Sarnath School of Art (Gupta Period) is identified by the use of Chunar sandstone, the "wet drapery" style (transparent clothing without folds), and a focus on inner spiritual calm.