i. Features of Indian Sculpture
- The Indus Valley sculptures were markedly different from later traditions, with terracotta figures and architectural adornments that were distinct in style. Vedic sculpture was also unique, reflecting rural themes. As the Mauryan Empire emerged in Magadha, their sculpture was primarily seen in religious monuments, which became the hallmark of the period. The Gupta period, known for its golden age in Indian culture, left its imprint on the sculpture of Ajanta and Ellora caves, which remain iconic examples of Indian cave temple sculpture.
- The South Indian temples witnessed a new – fangled sort of approach from 200 CE onwards, whether this approach was with features of Chalukya sculptures or the features of Pallava sculptures. The features of Badami Chalukya sculpture developed a new expression for itself which gained fame as the Karnata Dravida style. This was also popular as the Vesara architecture and sculpture. Idioms of both – southern and northern temple building are combined in this style. The features of Western Chalukya sculptures over and over again incorporated the copiously carved mandapdas, shikharas and outer walls.
- The bronze images were one of the major features of the Chola sculptures. The Chola bronze sculptures were well-designed and put rhythmic movements on show.
- Features of sculpture in medieval India differed radically from that of primeval India. The Persian art and architecture greatly influenced the native style. With the establishment of the Slave Dynasty in 1206 AD till 1526 AD saw the evolution of the features of Delhi Sultanate sculptures and architectures. The tall pillars, tombs, arched doorways, and minarets, merged with the Indian architecture. With this merger the formation of Indo-lslamic sculptures and architecture came into being.
- The features of the Rajput sculptures hold evidence to this fact. The architectural elements of the monuments of the Rajput display that they were borrowed from Persian style of architecture.
- The features of Mughal sculpture and architecture would over and over again comprise of calligraphy, well maintained gardens, broad and complicated stone works, and the recurrent use of marble .
- The originality for which sculptures of India were wonderfully distinguished at a time has not changed. At that time also India was blessed with astonishing talents and the contemporary India is once again a powerhouse of architectural and sculptural talent.
- Sculpture has gradually evolved into installations and taken a modern character. No wonder, features of Indian sculpture are a source of versatility and varied expression and continue to be the same.