History • Ancient IndiaEasy
The famous Mauryan monolithic pillars are well-known for their lustrous mirror-like polish. This distinct surface finish was achieved primarily due to:
A. The application of a specialized vegetable resin coating after carving
B. Extensive and meticulous manual rubbing and friction with abrasive sandstone grit✓ Correct Answer
C. Submerging the finished pillars in alkaline mineral hot springs for months
D. The natural chemical composition of Chunar sandstone reacting with weathering
💡 Solution & Explanation
The distinctive mirror-like sheen on Mauryan monolithic pillars carved from quarried Chunar sandstone was achieved through continuous, painstaking manual friction using abrasive stone grit. Chemical coatings or thermal treatments were not utilized by ancient artisans to produce this durable finish. This exceptional stonemasonry technique stands as a hallmark of Mauryan art and architecture across northern India.
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