Question

Which of the following are the characteristics of Gandhara art?
(A) Greek influence
(B) Buddha with moustache
(C) Curly hair
(D) Use of red sandstone

• A. A, B and D only
• B. A, B and C only
• C. A, C and D only
• D. B, C and D only

Hint:

Gandhara art = Greco-Roman influence, curly hair, moustached Buddha. Mathura art = red sandstone, robust Indian style.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Define Gandhara art.
Gandhara art flourished under Kushans (1st–5th century CE) in present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
It is known for Greco-Roman influence blended with Indian themes.
Step 2: Analyze features.
(A) Greek influence: Correct. Gandhara shows clear Hellenistic influence in drapery, posture, and realism.
(B) Buddha with moustache: Correct. Buddha was sometimes depicted with Greco-Roman facial styles, including moustaches.
(C) Curly hair: Correct. Inspired by Greek sculptures, Buddha’s hair is depicted in wavy/curly style.
(D) Use of red sandstone: Incorrect. That is characteristic of Mathura art, not Gandhara.
Step 3: Elimination.
Since red sandstone is Mathura, options including D are wrong.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answer is (B) A, B and C only.