Question

Answer the following question in 1-2 complete sentences.

Describe the Amaravati school of thought. Provide two examples of Amaravati sculpture.

Answer 1

The Amaravati school of Buddhist art (c. 2nd century BCE–3rd century CE), centered on the great stupa at Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh, is known for finely carved high‑relief narrative friezes, sinuous, lightly modeled figures with intricate drapery, abundant lotus and scroll ornament, and a strong emphasis on Jataka tales and scenes from the Buddha’s life. Two well‑known examples are the Amaravati Stupa narrative friezes (notably the "Great Departure" panel) and the standing Buddha sculpture from Amaravati (many fragments of which are now in the British Museum and the Government Museum, Chennai).