The question asks to identify the animal that is *not* among the four noble animals (Maha-Ajaneya Pasu) depicted on the round drum (Anda-Phalaka) of the Sarnath Lion Capital.
Sarnath Lion Capital Anda-Phalaka Animals
The Sarnath Lion Capital, erected by Emperor Ashoka, features significant carvings. The Anda-Phalaka, the circular base below the lions, is adorned with reliefs of four animals in succession, separated by dharma chakras (wheels of law). These animals symbolise important aspects of the Buddha's life and teachings:
- Elephant: Represents the conception of Buddha.
- Bull: Represents the birth of Buddha (also associated with the month of Vaisakha/Taurus).
- Horse: Represents Buddha's great renunciation and departure from his palace.
- Lion: Represents the attainment of enlightenment and the royalty of the Buddha (Shakya clan).
Identifying the Outlier
Now, let's examine the options provided in the context of the animals carved on the Anda-Phalaka:
- Lion: This is one of the four noble animals.
- Bull: This is one of the four noble animals.
- Horse: This is one of the four noble animals.
- Deer: While Sarnath is famous for its Deer Park, where Buddha gave his first sermon, the deer is not traditionally considered one of the four animals depicted on the Anda-Phalaka of the Sarnath Lion Capital.
Therefore, the Deer is the animal that does not belong to the specific group of four noble animals carved on the drum.
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-
Which of the following statements about sculptures at Sanchi is/are correct?
1. In some sculptures there is representation of Shalabhanjika.
2. The figure of Shalabhanjika is represented by a woman surrounded by lotuses and elephants.
3. The Shalabhanjika motif was not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- At the Gandhar School of Art, initially, blueshists and green fightlights were used. When did plaster completely replace stone as the main material used by the sculptors of the Gandhara school?
- 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?
