QUIZ – 2020: INSIGHTS STATIC , 24 May 2021 – Art and Culture

Solution: a)

The art of bronze casting was practised on a wide scale by the Harappans. Their bronze statues were made using the ‘lost wax’ technique.

DANCING GIRL

• One of the best known artefacts from the Indus Valley is this approximately four inch high copper figure of a dancing girl. Found in Mohenjodaro, this exquisite casting depicts a girl whose long hair is tied in a bun. Bangles cover her left arm, a bracelet and an amulet or bangle adorn her right arm, and a cowry shell necklace is seen around her neck. Her right hand is on her hip and her left hand is clasped in a traditional Indian dance gesture. She has large eyes and flat nose. This figure is full of expression and bodily vigour and conveys a lot of information.

Solution: c)

Pillars

• The tradition of constructing pillars is very old and it may be observed that erection of pillars was prevalent in the Achamenian empire as well. But the Mauryan pillars are different from the Achamenian pillars. The Mauryan pillars are rockcut pillars thus displaying the carver’s skills, whereas the Achamenian pillars are constructed in pieces by a mason.
• Stone pillars were erected by Ashoka, which have been found in the north Indian part of the Mauryan Empire with inscriptions engraved on them.

Solution: b)

About Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi:

• This tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. Commissioned by Humayun’s first wife and chief consort, Empress Bega Begum (also known as Haji Begum). Humayun’s garden-tomb is an example of the charbagh (a four-quadrant garden with the four rivers of Quranic paradise represented), with pools joined by channels. It is also called the ‘dormitory

of the Mughals’ as in the cells are buried over 150 Mughal family members. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Solution: a)

Solution: c)

Shigmo is the celebration of a ‘rich, golden harvest of paddy’ by the tribal communities of Goa. It is a vibrant celebration full of colour, song and dance rooted in Goan culture and traditions.