Explanation
Gandhara sculptures are famous for their Greco-Roman influence, often crafted from green or bluish-gray schist, a stone abundant in the Gandhara region (modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan). This material was favored for its ease of carving and ability to capture intricate details, making it ideal for depicting Buddha and Bodhisattva figures. Gandhara art stands out for its unique blend of Indian and Hellenistic artistic traditions. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect Maurya Sculptures (3rd century BCE) are primarily associated with the use of polished sandstone, particularly the famous Chunar sandstone. Examples: The Mauryan pillars and capitals, such as the Lion Capital of Sarnath. The Mathura school of art (flourished from 1st century BCE to 3rd century CE) is known for red sandstone sculptures from the Mathura region in Uttar Pradesh. It is famous for early representations of Buddha, Jaina Tirthankaras, and Yaksha-Yakshini figures. Bharhut Sculptures (2nd century BCE) are associated with the use of red sandstone. The Bharhut stupa, now largely preserved in the Indian Museum, Kolkata, is a prime example of early Indian Buddhist art.