Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture.
Introduction
'Lion' and 'bull' are seen as recurring figures, starting from 18th century onwards.
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Main Body
Significance of 'Lion' as 'Bull': (i) Mythology => during Harapppan period => the 'Pashupatl' lead's 'Photo-shiva' was surrounded key 'bull' => representing connect with animals. => In the period of Kushna mas, 'bull' terracotta' figurines have been discovered => representing a religious art. (ii) Art => Figure used during Buddhism. 'Bull' => fertility and birth of Buddha. => Lion => udalni as the leader of chakra clan. => It is used in sculptures eg: sarnath Pillar => 19 sitting lions. => sculptures of 'bull' have been found in the carvings of various stupas and Buddhist cave. (iii) Architecture => (i) In Dwanda temple architecture at the 'upgarams' of buildings, fierce looking miniature, along with bulls are cupids entered.
'Lion' => Udalni as the leader of chakya clan. => It is used in sculptures eg: sarnath Pillar => 19 sitting lions. => sculptures of 'bull' have been found in the carvings of various stupas and Buddhist cave. (iii) Architecture => (i) In Dwanda temple architecture at the 'upgarams' of buildings, fierce looking miniature, along with bulls are cupids entered. => (ii) Lion is seen as a major symbol in mughal paintings and architecture. eg: The depiction of 'Lion' and 'goat', under the universality of mughal rings => the entire subjects will be equally protected. Moreover, the symbolic importance of the 'Lion' and 'bull' architecture is extremely important to understand the connotations of power.
Conclusion
(ii) Lion is seen as a major symbol in mughal paintings and architecture.
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- comprehensive coverage across mythology, art, and architecture
- specific historical examples (Harappan, Kushnana, Sarnath)
- structured approach with distinct sections
- connects symbolism to multiple periods
Ritika Chitlangia
Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times
Sculpture
Lion and Bull symbolism
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Paragraphs
descriptive and analytical
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