Highlight the Central Asian and Greco-Bactrian elements in Gandhara art. (UPSC GS Paper 1 2019)
Gandhara art,a style of Buddhist Visual art developed in the region west of Indus during kushanas. Gandhara was a Mahajanpadha with Taxila as its capital. This region was ruled by Greco-Bactrian and Central Asian, therefore, had their influence in the art style as early as 2nd century BCE to 1st century AD. The Gandhara art, propagated by Kushanas developed in the region extending from Punjab to the borders of Afghanistan. This region was the important centre of Mahayana Buddhism.
Greco-Bactrian Elements in Gandhara Art
Greek Influence
1. Hellenistic features like curly hairs, moustaches on face.
2. Vajrapani protector image.
3. Muscular body.
4. Coins with Greek script.
5. Draperies covering both shoulders.
6. Stucco plastering.
Roman influence
1. Buddha is sometimes presented in Roman motifs like Triton.
2. Buddha of Gandhara sometimes through a wine scroll.
3. Buddha in human form is inspired by Roman tradition.
4. The outer rope of Buddha of Gandhara like Kaya resembles Roman gods.
Central Asian Influence
1. Bluish Schist used in Gandhara Art.
2. Disc shaped halo around the Buddha head.
3. Buddha presented in human form.
4. Kharosthi letters on Buddhist inscriptions in Gandhara.
The above influences can be well justified because of the strategic location of Gandhara school. Thus, in this regard it can be claimed that the art that flourished in the Gandhara valleys was a blend of different cultures.
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