Sculpting of Auspicious Women in Kushana Art

Abstract

With flow of time in Indian History there came numerous variations and developments in art forms and tradition, enriching Indian culture and aesthetics. In Kushana period of early ancient Indian history such enrichments in art and sculptures can be witnessed by a close look on women sculptures of the period. In each dynasty women’s representation through sculptures is remarkable and appreciable. It is a well known fact that in Shunga-Satavahana period art forms were based on pre determined parameters leaving limited scope for any deviation. With the beginning of Kushana period specially in northern India sculptures began to be created with new flow of thoughts. Thus like other forms of art, in sculptures also far reaching revolutionary changes took place that took art of that time out of strict discipline of well defined parameters giving it a relatively more open and liberal perspective and integument. Since Kanishka , the most revered king of Kushana dynasty, played decisive role in establishment and spread of Mahayana sect of Buddhist religion, the first depiction of Mahatma Buddha sculpture emerged under his patronage. His regime provided favorable environment for such sculptures. These factors encouraged Indian artisans to develop their creativity without any restraint, because of this there is an advent of a golden age of sculpture which was pioneered by Mathura school of art . with extremely beautiful and refined pieces of sculptures it filled entire north India with marvelous artifacts.