undefined — UPSC Study Material & Notes | Mission UPSC

Notes

Ancient Art & Architecture

Definition/Introduction

Ancient art and architecture refer to the artistic and structural achievements of ancient civilizations, particularly in the Indian subcontinent, encompassing various forms including sculptures, paintings, and monumental structures.

Historical Evolution

**Indus Valley Civilization (c. 2500-1500 BCE)**: Known for its urban planning, drainage systems, and the Great Bath of Mohenjo-Daro.

**Mauryan Period (c. 322-185 BCE)**: The emergence of monumental architecture with pillars and stupas.

**Gupta Period (c. 320-550 CE)**: Marked by advancements in sculpture, painting, and temple architecture, considered the Golden Age of India.

**Medieval Period (c. 600-1200 CE)**: Development of Indo-Islamic architecture with the establishment of Islamic kingdoms.

Classification/Types

1. **Buddhist Art**: Characterized by stupas, sculptures, and paintings, with notable examples like the Sanchi Stupa and the Ajanta Caves.

2. **Hindu Art**: Encompasses temple architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures; significant temples include the Brihadeeswarar Temple and the Sun Temple at Konark.

3. **Indo-Islamic Art**: A blend of Islamic and Indian styles, as seen in the Qutub Minar and the Humayun's Tomb.

4. **Mughal Architecture**: Known for its grandeur and symmetry, exemplified by the Taj Mahal and Red Fort.

5. **Rock-cut Architecture**: Includes the caves of Ajanta, Ellora, and the Elephanta Caves, showcasing exquisite carvings.

Important Provisions/Features

Stupas: Dome-shaped structures housing relics, pivotal in Buddhist architecture.

Temples: Central to Hindu worship, featuring detailed sculptures and inscriptions.

Pillars: Erected during the Mauryan period, like the Ashoka Pillars, adorned with inscriptions.

Frescoes: Notable in the Ajanta Caves, depicting Buddhist Jataka tales.

Fortifications: Seen in ancient city layouts, providing defense mechanisms.

Landmark Judgments

**Bhim Singh v. State of Jammu and Kashmir (1985)**: Highlighted the significance of ancient art in the context of cultural heritage preservation.

**M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1986)**: Addressed the importance of protecting monuments and ancient structures from environmental degradation.

Amendments

**42nd Amendment (1976)**: Emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in the Directive Principles of State Policy.

**Recent amendments related to heritage conservation**: Aimed at protecting ancient monuments and sites.

Comparison Tables

| Feature | Buddhist Architecture | Hindu Architecture |

|---------------------|----------------------------|----------------------------|

| Structure Type | Stupas, Viharas | Temples |

| Key Example | Sanchi Stupa | Brihadeeswarar Temple |

| Major Themes | Enlightenment, Relics | Worship, Deities |

UPSC Exam Focus

Frequently asked aspects include the characteristics of different architectural styles.

Tricky areas include distinguishing between features of Indo-Islamic and Mughal architecture.

---

Key Concepts

Mauryan Art: Characterized by large stone structures, stupas, and sculptures, notably the Great Stupa at Sanchi.

Gupta Period: Known as the Golden Age of India, marked by advancements in art, architecture, and literature.

Rock-cut Architecture: Includes the caves at Ajanta and Ellora, showcasing intricate carvings and frescoes.

Temple Architecture: Divided into Nagara (North Indian), Dravidian (South Indian), and Vesara (Mixed) styles.

Buddhist Architecture: Stupas, viharas, and chaityas were significant, with the Sanchi Stupa being a prime example.

Hindu Temple Styles: Defined by Shikhara (tower) in Nagara style and Vimana in Dravidian style.

Indo-Islamic Architecture: Emerged during the medieval period, combining Islamic and Indian elements, exemplified by the Qutub Minar.

Mughal Architecture: Characterized by grand structures, symmetry, and intricate ornamentation, best illustrated by the Taj Mahal.

Important Facts

•[3rd century BCE] The Great Stupa at SanchiAn important example of early Buddhist architecture, representing the Mauryan period.

•[2nd century BCE to 6th century CE] Ajanta CavesFamous for rock-cut architecture and exquisite frescoes, significant to Buddhist art.

•[1632-1653] Taj MahalA UNESCO World Heritage Site, exemplifying Mughal architecture and is often asked in UPSC.

•[1010 CE] Brihadeeswarar TempleAn exemplary representation of Dravidian architecture, known for its grand scale and intricate sculptures.

•[1193] Qutub MinarThe tallest brick minaret in the world, reflecting Indo-Islamic architecture, frequently featured in exam questions.

•[600-1000 CE] Rock-cut Caves of ElloraA UNESCO site showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut architecture.