Q. Consider the following statements regarding the distinguishing features of the Gandhara and Mathura schools of art:
  1. The Gandhara School of art was heavily influenced by Greek-Roman styles, whereas the Mathura School exhibited predominantly indigenous Indian features.
  2. Grey sandstone was the principal raw material used in the Gandhara School, while white-spotted red sandstone was mainly used in the Mathura School.
Which of the above statements is / are correct?

Answer: Both 1 and 2
Notes: Both statements are correct. The Gandhara school reflected strong Greek-Roman artistic influence and used grey sandstone, whereas the Mathura school developed in a distinctly Indian style using white-spotted red sandstone. Mathura had no initial foreign influence, but later styles did show some cross-fertilization with Gandhara, notably in artistic motifs like the halo.