Question

Consider the following statements about Gandhara art beyond stone sculptures:

1. A gold reliquary with figures in an arcade was found at Bimaran.
2. intricately carved ivory plaques were discovered at Begram.

1. A gold reliquary with figures in an arcade was found at Bimaran.
2. intricately carved ivory plaques were discovered at Begram.

• A. All of these
• B. i, ii
• C. None of these
• D. i only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. All of these

• The Bimaran Reliquary is a famous gold casket (reliquary) discovered at Bimaran in present-day Afghanistan.

• It was used to preserve sacred relics of the Buddha.

• The reliquary is decorated with figures of the Buddha, Brahma, Indra, and other deities placed within arched niches (arcades).

• It is considered one of the earliest known representations of the Buddha in human form and is an important example of Gandhara metal craftsmanship.