The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Akota hoard is a significant archaeological find comprising metal sculptures that provide evidence of the Western Indian school of art. These sculptures, dating from the late 5th to the 12th century AD, are crucial for understanding the development of bronze casting in Gujarat and the evolution of Jain iconography.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The hoard was discovered in Akota, a site located on the outskirts of Vadodara (formerly Baroda) in Gujarat. It represents a major center of bronze casting in Western India.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Akota hoard consists exclusively of Jain images, not Buddhist ones. It includes figures of Tirthankaras (such as Rishabhanatha, Parsvanatha, and Jivantasvami) and their attendant deities (Yakshas and Yakshinis).
- Statement 3 is Correct: The hoard contains specific iconographic representations, including that of Chakreshvari. In Jain iconography, Chakreshvari is the Shasanadevi (Yakshini or female attendant deity) associated with Adinath (Rishabhanatha), the first Tirthankara. She is typically depicted holding a chakra (wheel).
Key Takeaway:
The Akota bronzes are a definitive example of the Western Indian School of Art (Maru-Gurjara style) and are exclusively associated with Jainism, found near Vadodara, Gujarat.