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History of Jainism with Special Reference to Mathurā
palaeographically assignable to early first century AD.622 Probably, this depiction demonstrates the shape or form of the Jaina stupa built at Mathurā in the pre or early Kuṣaṇa period. This sila-paṭṭa or ayaga-paṭṭa depicts a complete stūpa which is sorrounded by a railing and approached by means of a flight of steps and an ornamental gateway (torana).623 This stūpa presents a contrast to the earlier Jaina stupa, i.e., the stupa constructed in the Sunga period. It has a high cylindrical drum which gives it a tower-like appearance. 624 This stupa is built on a high platform which appears to be square.625 This stupa is flanked by two pillars of Persipolitan style, the one to the proper right carries or bears a wheel and the other a sitting lion.626
There are three worshipping figures on each side of the stupa.627 The two flying figures above the stupa possibly represent the munis who were supposed to possess the power of transporting themselves through air.628 They are naked and carry in the left hand a piece of cloth and a waterpot or almsbowl; their right hand is applied to the forehead in token of respectful salutation (namaskara).629 The second pair of figures may be identified with suparnas corresponding to the harpies of classical art.630 They have birds' tails and claws.631 The one to the proper right carries a bunch of flowers, and the other a garland.632 The two female figures leaning in a graceful attitude against the drum of the stupa represent yakṣis.633 On each side of the staircase
622. JAA, I, p. 55; V.S. Agrawala, Bharatiya Kala, op. cit., p. 226. 623. MM, no. Q.2; Vogel, Catalogue, Plate V; JUPHS, III, p. 35. JAA, I, Plate 1 and p. 55.
624.
625. Ibid.
626. Ibid., Plate I; Vogel, Catalogue, Plate V; JUPHS, III, p. 35. 627. Ibid.; ibid.; ibid.
628.
Ibid.; ibid.; ibid.
629.
Ibid.; ibid.; ibid.
630.
Ibid.; ibid.; ibid.
631.
Ibid.; ibid.; ibid.
632. Ibid.; ibid.; ibid.
633. Ibid.; ibid.; ibid.
