Mathura and Gandhara School of Art 

(Relevant for Historical Section of General Studies Paper Prelims/Mains)

Mathura and Gandhara School of Art

From the first century CE onwards, two significant centers of art production emerged: Gandhara, located in present-day Pakistan, and Mathura in northern India. Mathura and Gandhara, Buddha took on a symbolic form, transitioning from an abstract concept to a more human-like representation. The sculptural tradition in Gandhara was influenced by a fusion of Bactria, Parthia, and the local Gandhara tradition.

The local sculptural tradition in Mathura became exceptionally influential, extending its influence to other parts of northern India. An excellent illustration of this can be seen in the stupa sculptures discovered at Sanghol in the Punjab region.

The Buddha image in Mathura was crafted in a manner reminiscent of earlier Yaksha images, while in Gandhara, it bore Hellenistic features.

• In terms of geographical areas, the Gandhara school of art predominantly thrived in regions encompassing Afghanistan and the present-day North-western parts of India. Conversely, the Mathura school of art found its development and prosperity in Mathura itself and the surrounding areas of Uttar Pradesh.
• Regarding the time periods of these art schools, the Gandhara school of art reached its zenith from the first century BC to the fifth century AD. In contrast, the Mathura school of art originated in the first century BC and continued to flourish until the twelfth century AD.
• Influences from external sources set these schools apart. The Gandhara school of art bore the influence of Greek and possibly Macedonian artistic elements, while the Mathura school of art remained purely indigenous, devoid of external influences.
• Religious influences also played a significant role in shaping these art forms. The Gandhara school of art drew inspiration from Buddhism, while the Mathura school of art was influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
• Distinct materials characterized these schools. The Gandhara school of art primarily utilized bluish-grey and grey sandstone, while the Mathura school of art employed spotted red sandstone.
• Expression-wise, the Gandhara Buddha was known for its central theme of calmness. On the other hand, the Mathura Buddha exhibited a delighted mood, seated in Padmasana, with the right hand in Abhyamudra and the left hand resting on the left thigh, conveying a sense of masculinity.
• Halo decorations around the head of Buddha differed as well. Generally, Gandhara school of art didn’t decorate the halo extensively, while the Mathura school of art frequently adorned it.

The other two famous schools were Amaravati School and Sarnath School of art. All these art schools were mostly inspired by religion and have left behind a rich heritage. The Art of India constitutes a unique chapter in the history of human endeavour. It unveils the deepest recesses of the human mind and offers a mirror to the Indian soul. The spiritual and religious dimensions of India’s creative genius has found full and perfect expression in the myriad aesthetic creations.

Frequently Asked Questions:

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