Question

Look at the image given below and identify the historical artefact:

• A. Ashoka’s Lion Capital
• B. Guptas’ Lion Capital
• C. Shungas’ Lion Capital
• D. Cholas’ Lion Capital

Hint:

When identifying historical artefacts, look for unique symbols—like the four lions and the wheel—which directly relate to Ashokan and Mauryan iconography.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The image shows the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, which was originally erected at Sarnath around 250 BCE during the reign of Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty. The capital features four Asiatic lions standing back to back, symbolizing power, courage, pride, and confidence. Beneath the lions are a circular abacus with sculptures of a bull, horse, lion, and elephant, separated by intervening Dharma Chakras (wheels).
This Lion Capital is a masterpiece of Mauryan sculpture and was adopted as the National Emblem of India in 1950. The Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Law) from its base was placed at the center of the Indian national flag. The other options refer to dynasties that did not produce this specific artefact. Hence, the correct identification is Ashoka’s Lion Capital.