In the context of history of art arrange the following in chronological order, starting from the earliest: (A) Bhumara (B) Bharhut (C) Jaggeyapeta (D) Tanjavur Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
(B), (C), (A), (D)
Understanding the Chronological Order of Ancient Indian Art Sites
This question asks us to arrange specific sites related to the history of art in India in chronological order, starting with the earliest. To do this, we need to understand the historical periods to which each site belongs.
Analysis of Each Art Site and Period
Let's look at the approximate period or dynasty associated with each site:
- Bharhut: The stupa and its railings at Bharhut are significant examples of early Indian Buddhist art, primarily associated with the Shunga period. This period followed the decline of the Mauryan Empire. The art here is known for its detailed narrative reliefs.
- Jaggeyapeta: Located in Andhra Pradesh, Jaggeyapeta is known for its Buddhist stupa and sculptures, which show stylistic similarities with early Amaravati art. This site is generally attributed to the Ikshvaku period in the Andhra region.
- Bhumara: Bhumara in Madhya Pradesh is famous for its Gupta period temple dedicated to Shiva (the Bhumara Temple). Gupta art is known for its refined style and classical form.
- Tanjavur: Tanjavur (or Thanjavur) is renowned for the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a magnificent Shiva temple built by Rajaraja I of the Chola dynasty. The Chola period is known for its grand temple architecture and bronze sculptures.
Determining the Chronological Sequence
Based on historical periods, we can establish the following approximate chronological order:
- Shunga period (Bharhut): Roughly late 2nd century BCE. This is one of the earliest sites listed.
- Ikshvaku period (Jaggeyapeta): Roughly 3rd century CE. This period follows the decline of the Satavahanas in the Andhra region.
- Gupta period (Bhumara): Roughly 5th century CE. The Gupta Empire flourished after the Ikshvaku period.
- Chola period (Tanjavur): Roughly early 11th century CE. The Chola dynasty rose to prominence much later than the Gupta period.
Therefore, the chronological order from earliest to latest is Bharhut, Jaggeyapeta, Bhumara, and Tanjavur.
Arranging the Sites by Code
Mapping the sites back to their codes:
- (B) Bharhut
- (C) Jaggeyapeta
- (A) Bhumara
- (D) Tanjavur
The chronological sequence is (B), (C), (A), (D).
Summary of Chronological Ordering
| Site (Code) | Historical Period/Dynasty | Approximate Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Bharhut (B) | Shunga | Late 2nd Century BCE |
| Jaggeyapeta (C) | Ikshvaku | 3rd Century CE |
| Bhumara (A) | Gupta | 5th Century CE |
| Tanjavur (D) | Chola | Early 11th Century CE |
Arranging these from earliest to latest gives us the order: Bharhut, Jaggeyapeta, Bhumara, Tanjavur, which corresponds to (B), (C), (A), (D).
Revision Table: Key Indian Art History Periods
| Period/Dynasty | Approximate Dates | Notable Art Centers/Sites | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shunga Period | c. 185 BCE - 73 BCE | Bharhut, Sanchi (early phases) | Narrative reliefs, focus on Jataka tales, folk deities, relatively flat figures. |
| Satavahana/Ikshvaku Period | c. 1st Century BCE - 3rd Century CE (Satavahana); c. 3rd - 4th Century CE (Ikshvaku) | Amaravati, Nagarjunakonda, Jaggeyapeta | Dynamic movement, slender figures, elaborate carvings, Buddhist themes prominent. |
| Gupta Period | c. 320 CE - 550 CE | Sarnath, Mathura, Ajanta, Ellora (early), Bhumara, Deogarh | Classical style, refined forms, serene expressions, balanced compositions, development of Hindu temple architecture. |
| Chola Period | c. 9th Century CE - 13th Century CE | Tanjavur, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Darasuram | Grand temple architecture (Dravidian style), exquisite bronze casting (Nataraja figures), detailed sculptures. |
Additional Information on Indian Art Sites
Studying the chronological order of these sites helps us understand the evolution of Indian art and architecture. Each period built upon the previous one, developing new styles, techniques, and iconographies.
- Bharhut: The stupa's carvings are valuable for understanding early Buddhist narratives and societal life.
- Jaggeyapeta: This site provides insights into the artistic traditions of the Andhra region during the Ikshvaku rule, linking Satavahana art to later developments.
- Bhumara: The Bhumara temple is a key example of early Gupta temple architecture, showcasing the transition towards more developed temple forms.
- Tanjavur: The Brihadeeswarar Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a pinnacle of Chola architecture and engineering, representing the peak of South Indian temple building.
Understanding the context of these sites is crucial for grasping the rich history of Indian art.
Important Questions from Temple Architecture and Regional Styles
The Chennakesva temple was built during which of the following empires?
A. Hoysal
B. Yadavas
C. Cholas
D. Pala
Which of the following is NOT one of the Great Living Chola Temples?
The Kamakhya Temple is located in ______.
The Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was constructed during the reign of which dynasty?
Which of the following temples are brick-temples?
(A) Bhitargaon temple, Kanpur
(B) Parsurameswara temple, Bhubaneshwar
(C) Laxmana temple, Khajuraho
(D) Laxmana temple, Sirpur
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
