Mauryan Art And Pillar Architecture

Exam-Oriented Q&A

Q1: What material and finish defined Mauryan pillars?
Answer: Monolithic sandstone shafts with a high-gloss polish, earning the “polished stone” hallmark.

Q2: Describe the structure of a typical Ashokan pillar.
Answer: A tall shaft, circular abacus, bell-shaped drum, and an animal capital—often lions or bulls.

Q3: Name two purposes of pillar inscriptions.
Answer: Communicating Ashoka’s edicts on moral governance and marking sacred or administrative sites.

Q4: Which cave complex exemplifies Mauryan rock-cut art?
Answer: The Barabar Caves, with mirrored interiors and carved entrances.

Q5: What does the Sarnath Lion Capital symbolize?
Answer: The spread of dharma (law) and imperial unity under Ashoka.