In the Mathura School of Art, Buddha’s images are largely carved in

In the Mathura School of Art, Buddha’s images are largely carved in

Dhyana Mudra
Abhaya Mudra
Dharmachakra Mudra
Varada Mudra
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UPSC CAPF – 2021
In the Mathura School of Art, Buddha images are significantly characterized by the Abhaya Mudra, especially in the standing postures. This mudra, where the right hand is raised with the palm facing outwards and fingers pointing upwards, symbolizes reassurance, fearlessness, protection, and peace. Early Mathura images often depict the Buddha in this posture and mudra, representing him as a powerful, dynamic figure dispelling fear.
– The Mathura School of Art flourished in and around Mathura from the 1st to 3rd centuries CE.
– It developed indigenous Indian styles, using red sandstone.
– Mathura Buddha images often show Indian facial features, fleshy bodies, and a flowing robe draped over one shoulder.
– The standing Buddha in Abhaya Mudra is a hallmark of the Mathura school.
Other mudras:
– Dhyana Mudra: Hand pose for meditation, typically with hands resting on the lap.
– Dharmachakra Mudra: Gesture of teaching the first sermon, symbolizing the turning of the Wheel of Dharma. Often seen in seated Buddha images.
– Varada Mudra: Gesture of granting boons or charity, with the hand pointing downwards.
While other mudras are present, Abhaya Mudra is notably prominent in the early Mathura standing Buddha images.