Sculpture Chronology: Mayadevi Dream Panels

To arrange the "Dream of Mayadevi" sculptures chronologically, we need to consider the periods associated with their respective sites.

Artistic Periods of Key Sites

• Bharhut (B): Primarily dates to the Sunga period (circa 2nd Century BCE). This site features one of the earliest known depictions of Maya's dream.
• Sanchi (D): Sculptures date from the Sunga period through the Satavahana period (circa 2nd Century BCE - 1st Century CE). Reliefs here generally follow Bharhut stylistically.
• Amaravati (A): Flourished during the Satavahana and Ikshvaku periods (circa 2nd - 4th Century CE). Known for its advanced classical style.
• Kanaganahalli (E): Associated with the Ikshvaku period (circa 3rd - 4th Century CE), contemporary with Nagarjunikonda.
• Nagarjunikonda (C): Also dates to the Ikshvaku period (circa 3rd - 4th Century CE), contemporary with Amaravati and Kanaganahalli, representing later developments.

Chronological Ordering

Based on these periods, the correct chronological sequence is:

1. Bharhut (B): 2nd Century BCE
2. Sanchi (D): 1st Century BCE - 1st Century CE
3. Amaravati (A): 2nd - 4th Century CE
4. Kanaganahalli (E): 3rd - 4th Century CE
5. Nagarjunikonda (C): 3rd - 4th Century CE

Therefore, the correct order is B, D, A, E, C.