Which among the following is NOT a component of Lion Capital at Sarnath, India?
Understanding the Lion Capital of Sarnath
The Lion Capital of Sarnath is a famous sculpture from the Mauryan period, specifically associated with Emperor Ashoka. It originally crowned an Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath. This capital is now the National Emblem of India and is renowned for its artistic and historical significance. Understanding its components is key to answering questions about it.
Components of the Lion Capital at Sarnath
The Lion Capital structure can be broadly divided into several parts:
- Capital proper: This part features the figures of four Asiatic Lions standing back to back.
- Abacus: Below the lions is a cylindrical abacus. This abacus is decorated with sculptures of four animals – a lion, an elephant, a bull, and a horse – separated by Dharma Chakras (wheels).
- Lotus Base: The abacus rests on an inverted bell-shaped lotus flower base.
The pillar shaft itself is not considered part of the capital, but it was the support structure.
Analyzing the Given Options
Let's examine each option in the context of the actual components of the Lion Capital at Sarnath:
Option 1: Carved cow representing South direction
- The animals on the abacus are a lion, elephant, bull, and horse. There is no carved cow on the abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital.
- While the animals on the abacus are sometimes associated with directions (Bull - East, Horse - West, Elephant - North, Lion - South), the animal representing the South direction is the lion, not a cow.
- Therefore, a "carved cow representing South direction" is not a component of the Lion Capital at Sarnath.
Option 2: Figures of 4 lions
- The most prominent feature of the capital is the group of four lions standing back to back.
- This is definitely a component of the Lion Capital.
Option 3: Dharma Chakras
- The abacus of the capital has Dharma Chakras (wheels) placed between the figures of the four animals.
- These Dharma Chakras are significant Buddhist symbols and are integral to the design of the abacus.
- This is a component of the Lion Capital.
Option 4: Lotus base bell
- The capital structure includes an inverted bell-shaped base, often described as a lotus base due to its shape resembling an inverted lotus flower.
- This forms the lower part of the capital, supporting the abacus and lions.
- This is a component of the Lion Capital.
Based on this analysis, the only option that is NOT a component of the Lion Capital at Sarnath is the "Carved cow representing South direction".
The actual animals on the abacus and their traditional directional associations are often listed as:
| Animal on Abacus | Traditional Direction (often associated) |
|---|---|
| Bull | East |
| Horse | West |
| Elephant | North |
| Lion | South |
Thus, a cow is not among these animals, and the animal associated with the South is a lion, not a cow.
Conclusion on Lion Capital Components
The Lion Capital at Sarnath consists of four lions, an abacus with four animals (lion, elephant, bull, horse) and four Dharma Chakras, and an inverted lotus base. A carved cow is not a part of this capital.
Therefore, the component that is NOT found in the Lion Capital at Sarnath is the carved cow representing the South direction.
Revision Table: Lion Capital Components
| Component Mentioned | Present in Sarnath Lion Capital? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carved cow representing South direction | No | A cow is not present; the animal representing South is a lion. |
| Figures of 4 lions | Yes | The main crowning element. |
| Dharma Chakras | Yes | Present on the abacus between animals. |
| Lotus base bell | Yes | The inverted bell-shaped base. |
Additional Information on Sarnath Capital
The Lion Capital of Sarnath is one of the most celebrated examples of Mauryan sculpture. It is carved from a single block of polished sandstone. The four lions symbolize power, courage, and confidence. The Dharma Chakra represents the Dhamma (righteousness) and the wheel of law preached by Buddha, as Sarnath is where Buddha first delivered his sermon. The animals on the abacus are also symbolic, representing various aspects or directions, and are depicted in a dynamic movement. The entire structure reflects the artistic and technical sophistication of the Mauryan period and Ashoka's commitment to propagating Buddhist principles and establishing a just rule (Dharma). The Sarnath capital holds immense historical and cultural significance for India.
Important Questions from Sculpture
The ‘Gandhara School of Art’ was developed under the ________ Dynasty.
Lalit Kala Academy was established by the Government of India to-
- With reference to the 'Male Torso' figurine from the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements:
1. It was excavated from the site of Mohenjo-Daro.
2. It is made of red sandstone and possesses drilled sockets for the attachment of other body parts.
3. Its dynamic posture and naturalistic representation indicate an advanced understanding of human anatomy for its time.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? - Which of the following Ashokan pillar capitals, notable for its depiction of a powerfully built single bull atop a circular abacus adorned with geese and rosettes, was discovered in Bihar?
The ‘Gandhara’ School of Art was influenced by the art from which of the following European countries?
