Question

Which of the following statements accurately describe Harappan seals?
I. Harappan seals often feature animal motifs.
II. Harappan seals were made of terracotta with symbols.
III. Harappan seals were known for military victories.
IV. Harappan seals were predominantly used in burials.

• A. Statements I and II are correct.
• B. Statements I and III are correct.
• C. Statements II and III are correct.
• D. Statements III and IV are correct.

Hint:

Harappan seals are essential for understanding the socio-economic and religious aspects of the Indus Valley Civilization. They were used for trade, administration, and possibly for religious or ceremonial purposes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Harappan seals are one of the most important artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization. They provide valuable insights into the culture and practices of this ancient society. Let's evaluate each statement:
1. Statement I: Harappan seals often feature animal motifs.
This statement is correct. Many Harappan seals feature animals such as elephants, unicorns, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses, which were often used to represent certain deities or symbolic figures in Harappan culture.
2. Statement II: Harappan seals were made of terracotta with symbols.
This statement is also correct. Harappan seals were primarily made of materials like steatite (soapstone), not terracotta. However, the seals often featured carved symbols, typically in the form of pictographs or animal motifs, making the seals distinctive.
3. Statement III: Harappan seals were known for military victories.
This statement is incorrect. Harappan seals generally did not depict military victories, unlike the seals from other ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, where military achievements were commonly recorded. The Harappans focused more on animals, deities, and trade symbols.
4. Statement IV: Harappan seals were predominantly used in burials.
This statement is partially true, as some seals have been found in burial contexts, but they were primarily used for trade purposes, as markers or identifiers for merchants and goods. Therefore, they were not predominantly associated with burials.
Conclusion:
Thus, the correct answer is (A) as Statements I and II are accurate descriptions of Harappan seals.