The flourishing international trade during the Kushana period gave tremendous impetus to the development of art. Discuss.

The Extent of Kushana Trade

The Kushana period was characterized by extensive trade, both internal and external. Internally, a robust network connected various regions within the empire, facilitating the movement of goods like textiles, spices, and precious stones. Externally, the Kushanas controlled crucial segments of the Silk Road, connecting the East and West. Key trade routes passed through Bactria, Taxila, and other Kushana cities.

• Silk Road Trade: Kushanas profited immensely from the Silk Road trade, acting as intermediaries between Rome and China. Roman gold coins were frequently found in Kushana hoards, indicating a significant trade imbalance favoring Roman exports.
• Maritime Trade: Kushanas also engaged in maritime trade with the Roman Empire via ports on the Arabian Sea.
• Central Asian Trade: Trade with Central Asian regions brought in horses, which were crucial for the Kushana military.

Artistic Flourishing – Gandhara and Mathura Schools

The economic prosperity generated by trade directly fueled artistic development. Two prominent schools of art flourished during this period: Gandhara and Mathura.

Gandhara Art

Gandhara art, located in present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, was heavily influenced by Greco-Roman artistic traditions. The influx of foreign artisans and the demand for luxury goods from the Roman world contributed to its unique style.

• Greco-Roman Influence: Gandhara sculptures depict Buddha in a Hellenistic style, with wavy hair, realistic folds in drapery, and a muscular physique.
• Material Availability: The trade brought in materials like ivory and precious stones, which were used in Gandhara art.
• Examples: The statues of Buddha found in Taxila and the Bamiyan Buddhas (destroyed in 2001) are prime examples of Gandhara art.

Mathura Art

Mathura art, located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, developed a distinct indigenous style, though it also absorbed influences from other cultures.

• Indigenous Style: Mathura sculptures are characterized by their robust forms, sensuous curves, and use of red sandstone.
• Patronage: Wealthy merchants and Kushana rulers patronized Mathura art, commissioning sculptures and building religious structures.
• Examples: The Mathura Buddha image, depicting Buddha with a halo and a simple monastic robe, and the images of Kushana rulers like Kanishka are significant examples.

Mechanisms of Impact: Trade and Art

The relationship between trade and art wasn’t simply one of financial support. Several mechanisms facilitated this connection:

• Patronage: Wealthy merchants, benefiting from trade, became patrons of the arts, commissioning sculptures, paintings, and architectural projects. Kushana rulers also actively supported artistic endeavors.
• Material Availability: Trade brought in new materials like ivory, glass, and precious stones, which were used in artistic creations.
• Cultural Exchange: The movement of people and ideas along trade routes led to a cross-fertilization of artistic styles and techniques. Gandhara art is a prime example of this cultural synthesis.
• Urbanization: Trade led to the growth of cities like Taxila and Mathura, which became centers of artistic production and innovation.

Art School	Influence	Materials Used	Key Characteristics
Gandhara	Greco-Roman	Ivory, Stucco, Gold	Hellenistic style, realistic depiction of Buddha, wavy hair
Mathura	Indigenous, some foreign	Red Sandstone	Robust forms, sensuous curves, indigenous motifs