Which one of the following sculptures was invariably used green schist as the medium?

Correct Option

Bharhut sculptures, primarily from the Sunga period (2nd century BCE), are distinct for their consistent use of green schist as the primary medium. This material allowed for detailed carvings, often depicting Jataka tales, Buddhist symbols like the lotus, stupas, and Bodhi trees, as well as Yaksha and Yakshini figures. The Bharhut stupa railings and gateways are prime examples of this early Buddhist art, characterized by its narrative style and flat, frontal figures.

Incorrect Options

• Maurya sculptures: These sculptures, including the famous Ashokan pillars, predominantly utilized Chunar sandstone, often highly polished.
• Mathura sculptures: The Mathura school of art, particularly prominent during the Kushana period, is characterized by its use of spotted red sandstone.
• Gandhara sculptures: The Gandhara school, known for its Greco-Buddhist style, primarily employed grey schist and stucco as its sculptural materials.