The earliest known historical sculptures in India date back to the Mauryan period (4th–3rd centuries BCE).
This artistic style is characterized by its bold, massive forms and a high degree of realism, incorporating influences from Achaemenid Persian art.
Mauryan sculpture can be broadly classified into Court Art and Popular Art.
Court Art includes monumental pillars and their intricately carved capitals, while Popular Art comprises sculptures such as the Yakshas and Yakshinis, created by local artisans.
A notable example of Mauryan Court Art is the Ashokan Palace at Kumrahar, renowned for its elaborately decorated walls featuring carvings and sculptures.
Pillars during Ashoka's Reign
During Ashoka’s reign, pillars were constructed and inscribed as symbols of state authority, to commemorate military victories, or to disseminate his sermons.
The primary purpose of Mauryan pillars was to inspire awe and reinforce the power and grandeur of the rulers.
This is reflected in the solidity of the animal figures, their exaggerated forms, stylized appearances, and the towering, majestic presence of the columns.
Notable examples include the Lion Capital at Sarnath, the pillar at Vaishali, the Ashoka Pillar at Allahabad, and the pillars at Lauriya-Areraj and Lauriya-Nandangar.
