The Golden Age as the Gupta Empire Art

Abstract

The Gupta Empire is known as the 'Golden Age' of India for its achievements in art, architecture, literature and science during the period between the 4th and 6th century CE. Gupta art is characterized by that synthesis in the realism and idealism, both sometimes expressed in what is described as serene, stylized figures that represent spiritual ideals. Incarment carving of temples with intricate carvings marked the religious devotion and societal values. Reliefs of deities and mythological scenes cover the temples such as those of Sanchi and Udayagiri, exuding functionality as well as artistic sophistication. Sculpture also developed a characteristically distinctive style during this era whose figures of Hindu gods, Buddha and Jain tirthankaras embodied grace and calm depicting the perfect shape of divinity. The material commonly used: terracotta, stone, bronze, artists paid great attention to the details: expressions, gestures, postures, all came together in an atmosphere of divine tranquility, spirituality. Gupta art was to influence Indian art for centuries and the aesthetic principles of Gupta art became the basis for later Southeast Asian art. In literature and science also the period excelled, sanskrit literature and mathematical concepts like zero came to prominence. The artistic and intellectual achievements of the Gupta Empire represent collectively a golden era of cultural and spiritual growth which has left a durable legacy.