7.3 Indigenous elements in Mathura style
3 min read•july 29, 2024
Mathura art blended local Indian elements with Buddhist imagery, creating a unique style. The , traditional garments, and elaborate jewelry showcased indigenous influences, while Buddhist themes were adapted to local tastes.
This fusion of indigenous and Buddhist elements in Mathura art contrasted with Gandharan style, which had stronger Greco-Roman influences. Mathura's approach highlighted the diversity of early Buddhist art across different regions of India.
Indigenous elements in Mathura art
Tribhanga pose and local garment styles
Top images from around the web for Tribhanga pose and local garment styles
Ken Kawasaki: Buddha Statues and Reliquaries in the Indian Museum, Kolkata View original
Is this image relevant?
Splendor of Ancient Kashmir in Alchi |Search Kashmir View original
Is this image relevant?
Ken Kawasaki: Buddha Statues and Reliquaries in the Indian Museum, Kolkata View original
Is this image relevant?
Splendor of Ancient Kashmir in Alchi |Search Kashmir View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
Top images from around the web for Tribhanga pose and local garment styles
Ken Kawasaki: Buddha Statues and Reliquaries in the Indian Museum, Kolkata View original
Is this image relevant?
Splendor of Ancient Kashmir in Alchi |Search Kashmir View original
Is this image relevant?
Ken Kawasaki: Buddha Statues and Reliquaries in the Indian Museum, Kolkata View original
Is this image relevant?
Splendor of Ancient Kashmir in Alchi |Search Kashmir View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
- Incorporated the tribhanga pose, a subtle S-curve in the body posture of human figures, which was an indigenous Indian artistic element
- Depicted figures wearing traditional Indian garments like the (lower garment worn by men) and (upper garment or shawl), reflecting local clothing styles
Jewelry, ornamentation, and indigenous cultural themes
- Used elaborate jewelry, headdresses, and ornamentation, drawing from indigenous Indian artistic traditions and aesthetics
- Frequently depicted Indian mythological figures, deities, and scenes from local religious narratives, showcasing the influence of indigenous cultural themes
- Employed smooth, fleshy, and voluptuous body types, characteristic of indigenous Indian artistic sensibilities
Local motifs and decorative elements
- Incorporated local Indian motifs, such as flowers, vines, and other floral patterns, into the decorative elements of sculptures
- Utilized indigenous iconographic elements, such as the and the , highlighting the role of local symbolic traditions in shaping the style
Local influence on Mathura style
Rich history of indigenous artistic traditions
- Developed in a region with a rich history of indigenous artistic traditions, which significantly influenced the style's evolution
- Local workshops and guilds of artists in Mathura played a crucial role in preserving and transmitting indigenous artistic techniques and knowledge
Emphasis on Indian religious and mythological themes
- Reflected the strong influence of local cultural traditions on artistic expression through the depiction of Indian religious and mythological themes
- Incorporated indigenous iconographic elements, such as the lotus throne and the halo, highlighting the role of local symbolic traditions in shaping the style
Adaptation to regional resources and artistic sensibilities
- Used , a locally available material, demonstrating the adaptation of artistic practices to regional resources and traditions
- Exhibited distinct aesthetic sensibilities, such as the preference for rounded, soft, and sensuous forms, shaped by local artistic tastes and conventions
Mathura vs Gandharan art
Influence of foreign artistic traditions
- Mathura art predominantly showcased indigenous Indian elements, while Gandharan art exhibited a stronger influence of foreign, particularly and Roman, artistic traditions
- Gandharan sculptures often depicted figures in more naturalistic and anatomically accurate ways, reflecting the influence of Greek and Roman artistic principles, whereas Mathura art prioritized indigenous Indian aesthetic ideals
Differences in attire and facial features
- Gandharan art frequently featured figures wearing Greco-Roman attire, such as the toga and himation, while Mathura art depicted figures in traditional Indian garments (dhoti and uttariya)
- The facial features and hairstyles of figures in Gandharan art often resembled those of Hellenistic and Roman sculptures, while Mathura art maintained indigenous Indian facial types and hairstyles
Architectural elements and religious influences
- Gandharan art incorporated foreign architectural elements, such as the Corinthian capital and the acanthus leaf motif, whereas Mathura art relied more on indigenous Indian architectural and decorative elements
- The influence of Buddhist narratives and was more prominent in Gandharan art due to the region's proximity to important Buddhist centers, while Mathura art depicted a wider range of indigenous Indian religious and mythological themes
Key Terms to Review (21)
Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara: Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara is a key figure in Mahayana Buddhism, embodying compassion and the ideal of saving all sentient beings from suffering. This bodhisattva is revered for their ability to hear the cries of the world and is often depicted in various forms across different cultures, emphasizing the integration of indigenous elements within art, particularly in styles like Mathura.
Buddha Shakyamuni: Buddha Shakyamuni refers to Siddhartha Gautama, the historical figure and founder of Buddhism, who attained enlightenment and became known as the Buddha. His teachings form the core of Buddhist philosophy and practice, emphasizing the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which aim to alleviate suffering and promote spiritual awakening.
Dhoti: A dhoti is a traditional garment worn by men in South Asia, consisting of a long piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and tied at the front. This simple yet versatile attire can be seen in various styles and draping methods, reflecting regional and cultural differences. The dhoti is significant in religious and ceremonial contexts, often associated with purity and dignity in Hindu culture.
Halo: A halo is a circular band of light or radiance that often appears around the head or figure of a sacred or revered individual in art, symbolizing divinity, holiness, or enlightenment. This visual element is commonly used in Buddhist and other religious art to signify the spiritual significance of the depicted figures, enhancing their status and connecting them to the divine.
Hellenistic: Hellenistic refers to the period of history and cultural influence that followed the conquests of Alexander the Great, roughly from 323 BCE to 31 BCE. This era is characterized by the spread of Greek culture across a vast region that included parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa, leading to a blending of Greek and local artistic traditions, philosophies, and ways of life. The Hellenistic period is significant for its impact on art, particularly in sculpture and architecture, which saw an evolution in style and representation.
High relief: High relief is a sculptural technique where the figures project significantly from the background, creating a strong sense of depth and three-dimensionality. This technique is often used to convey dynamic movement and detailed narratives within the artwork, enhancing the viewer's visual experience and engagement with the piece.
Iconography: Iconography is the study and interpretation of visual imagery and symbols in art, particularly how they convey specific meanings within cultural and religious contexts. In Buddhist art, iconography helps to communicate complex ideas about teachings, narratives, and rituals through visual representation. It serves as a vital link between art and the beliefs that inform its creation, enabling viewers to engage with profound concepts visually.
Indo-Scythian: The Indo-Scythians were a group of nomadic warriors and traders who migrated into the Indian subcontinent around the 2nd century BCE, originating from the region of Central Asia. Their arrival significantly influenced the local cultures, especially in areas like Mathura, where they contributed to the development of artistic styles that blended indigenous elements with their own traditions.
Jataka Tales: Jataka Tales are stories about the previous lives of the Buddha, showcasing his moral teachings and virtues through various narratives. These tales are integral to Buddhist literature and art, illustrating the principles of karma and compassion across different contexts.
Kushan Period: The Kushan Period refers to a historical era from around the 1st to the 3rd century CE when the Kushan Empire thrived in the regions of modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northern India. This period is significant for its cultural syncretism, particularly in the development of Buddhist art and imagery, influenced by various artistic traditions, including indigenous styles and Hellenistic elements.
Lotus: The lotus is a significant symbol in Buddhism, representing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. Its ability to rise from muddy waters and bloom beautifully signifies the journey of the soul towards spiritual awakening and the attainment of nirvana, connecting deeply with various aspects of Buddhist art and iconography.
Lotus throne: The lotus throne is a symbolic and artistic representation of divinity in Buddhist art, characterized by a throne or pedestal shaped like a lotus flower. This motif signifies purity, spiritual awakening, and the blossoming of enlightenment, commonly found in depictions of important figures like the Buddha or bodhisattvas, particularly in Indian art and its subsequent styles.
Mahayana Buddhism: Mahayana Buddhism is one of the two major branches of Buddhism, characterized by its focus on the bodhisattva ideal and the pursuit of enlightenment for all beings. It emphasizes compassion, wisdom, and the idea that anyone can attain Buddhahood, connecting to diverse cultural influences, artistic expressions, and spiritual practices throughout Asia.
Mathura style: Mathura style refers to a distinct artistic tradition that emerged in ancient India around the 1st century BCE, characterized by its unique portrayal of Buddha images and sculptures. This style is notable for its combination of indigenous Indian artistic elements and influences from Hellenistic art, leading to expressive and dynamic representations of the Buddha that emphasize spiritual and physical characteristics.
Mauryan Influence: Mauryan influence refers to the artistic, cultural, and political legacy of the Mauryan Empire, which existed from 322 to 185 BCE in ancient India. This influence is particularly visible in the development of Buddhist art and architecture, including the Mathura style, where indigenous elements are combined with the imperial aesthetics of the Mauryan period, leading to a unique visual language that reflects both local traditions and broader imperial narratives.
Naturalism: Naturalism refers to an artistic approach that emphasizes realistic representation and the accurate depiction of subjects as they appear in nature. This style often involves a focus on detail, form, and light, aiming to convey a lifelike appearance that reflects the physical world. It plays a significant role in various art forms and has been influenced by cultural exchanges across regions.
Red sandstone: Red sandstone is a sedimentary rock commonly used in ancient Indian sculpture and architecture, especially notable in the Mathura style. This distinctive material is characterized by its vibrant red hue and fine grain, making it suitable for intricate carvings and large architectural projects, connecting to both indigenous cultural elements and the evolution of artistic styles in the region.
Stone carving: Stone carving is the artistic practice of shaping and embellishing stone to create sculptures, reliefs, and architectural elements. This technique has been a vital part of various cultural expressions, especially in the context of religious art, as it reflects deep philosophical meanings and societal values that transcend time. In Buddhist art, stone carving serves not only as a medium for artistic expression but also as a means to convey spiritual narratives and local traditions.
Terracotta: Terracotta is a type of fired clay that is often used for sculptures, pottery, and architectural elements. This material has been employed for centuries in various cultures, allowing artists to create intricate and expressive works. In the context of Buddhist art, terracotta plays a significant role in highlighting indigenous elements and unique stylistic features that define different regional schools of art.
Tribhanga pose: The tribhanga pose is a classical Indian sculpture pose characterized by a three-bend stance, often depicting a figure with the torso bent to one side, the hips tilted in the opposite direction, and the head turned gracefully. This pose not only emphasizes the beauty and grace of the figure but also symbolizes a sense of movement and fluidity, frequently seen in representations of deities and divine figures in Indian art.
Uttariya: Uttariya refers to the upper garment or shawl worn by Buddhist figures and devotees, symbolizing dignity and respect within the Buddhist tradition. This garment plays a significant role in Buddhist iconography and is often depicted on various representations of the Buddha, indicating both cultural and religious significance across different artistic styles. Its portrayal varies between regions, reflecting indigenous elements while also maintaining core characteristics associated with Buddhist art.