MAURYAN SCULPTURES

Published on 15 Sep 2025

Mauryan sculptures, created during the Maurya Empire in ancient India, are renowned for their artistic brilliance and historical significance. These sculptures, predominantly made of stone, exhibit a distinct style characterized by naturalism, grace, and attention to detail. With subjects ranging from religious deities and rulers to everyday life scenes, Mauryan sculptures provide valuable insights into the culture, beliefs, and artistic achievements of the era.

Significance of Sculptures from Mauryan Period

Social

Promotion of religious beliefs: Mauryan sculptures played a significant role in propagating Buddhism helped popularize Buddhist teachings and spread its influence across the Mauryan Empire.

Example: The depiction of Buddha in sculptures, such as the famous Sarnath Pillar capital.

Emphasis on social harmony: Mauryan pillars had messages for society to have tolerance and accommodative values in their day-to-day life.

Example: Ashoka’s Dhamma propagated through Pillar edicts.

Celebration of feminine beauty: Mauryan sculptures highlighted the beauty and grace of women, reflecting the societal appreciation of feminine aesthetics.

Example: The Yakshi sculptures throughout the Mauryan Empire.

Integration of diverse cultures: Mauryan sculptures were dedicated to various regions within the empire, reflecting the assimilation of diverse cultures under Mauryan rule and promoting a sense of unity.

Example: The Lomas Rishi caves were dedicated to Ajvikas.

Economic

Patronage of artisans: The creation of large-scale sculptures required the employment of skilled artisans, providing them with economic opportunities and contributing to the growth of the artistic community.

Example: Milinda Panho mentions about 75 occupations, out of which 60 are connected with various kinds of crafts.

Trade and commerce: The demand for stone and other raw materials for sculpting led to the development of trade networks and facilitated economic exchanges between regions.

Example: Emergence of Panyadhyaksh to control trade and commerce.

Tourism and pilgrimage: The presence of magnificent sculptures attracted pilgrims and visitors, stimulating local economies through the establishment of accommodation, transportation, and other support services.

Example: Visit by Megasthenes during the time of Chandragupta Maurya.

Political

Assertion of imperial power: Mauryan sculptures showcased their authority and supremacy, reinforcing the concept of centralised state machinery.

Example: Ashoka’s idea of paternal despotism is conveyed through pillar edicts.

Propaganda and ideological expression: Sculptures were used as tools for disseminating political ideologies, promoting the king's virtues, and conveying messages of governance and justice.

Example: Ashokan pillars asked everyone to avoid animal slaughter and sacrifice.

Fostering diplomatic relationships: Sculptures were often exchanged as diplomatic gifts between rulers of different regions, fostering political alliances and strengthening political ties.

Example: The Heliodorus Pillar as Besnagar.

Architectural grandeur: The monumental sculptures and architectural elements enhanced the grandeur of imperial palaces, fortifications, and public structures, signifying the political power and prestige of the Mauryan Empire.

Example: The Lion Capital of Ashoka.

Technological

Advancements in stone carving techniques: Mauryan sculptors developed sophisticated methods of carving and sculpting stone, showcasing intricate details and achieving a high level of precision.

Example: The polished and refined surfaces of the monolith sculptures of the Mauryan Empire.

Architectural innovations: Sculptures integrated into architectural structures, such as the ornate gateways of the Great Stupa at Sanchi, showcased technical advancements in construction and engineering during the Mauryan period.
Development of metal casting techniques: Mauryan sculptors excelled in metal casting, as seen in the creation of bronze statues.

Example: The famous Yakshi figure from Didarganj.

Utilization of tools and instruments: Sculptors employed various tools, such as chisels, hammers, and drills, to carve and shape stone, demonstrating their knowledge of tool-making and craftsmanship.
Preservation and restoration techniques: Mauryan sculptures have been preserved and restored over centuries, indicating the development of techniques for safeguarding and repairing these ancient works of art, ensuring their longevity for future generations.