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The other Excavated Artefacts of Mathurā
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by a large circle where eight female divinities are moving holding the garlands with loose drapery over their heads. The rim of this circle is made up of a twisted rope interspersed with rosettes. The whole wheel is supported by suparna dwarfs at corners. The three corners and sides have floral design while fourth corner is broken. The two sides have śrīvatsa and two have tilaka-ratna symbols in middle, which are adored by a couple with human faced mythical lions carrying garland in hands. It displays the powerful influence of Hellenistic art carried down to Mathurā School. Smith V. describes the Hellenistic influence on Ayāgapata as follows: “The artistic deep undercutting of much of the ornament is especially noticeable. It was probably the result of association with the Alexandrian school which delighted in the decoration of panels”. 18 Here the yakṣis are carved carrying garlands for adoring the symbol of three jewels (Right knowledge, Right faith and right conduct) and
a wheel with 16 spokes. 6) Āyāgapața set up by Sihanādika (fig. 110, J. 249 NM. Delhi) :
This tablet is a representation of fine workmanship of Kuşāņa, period. The carving comprises of the illustration of four corners with floral design, eight auspicious-symbols, two side posts having a wheel and an elephant on top and Jina at the centre encircled by four three jewels (nandipāda) groups. The inscription is clearly readable. Both the upper and lower panels have four auspicious symbols each-a pair of fish, heavenly car (or folding mirror?), śrīvatsa, and a powder box as well as three jewels, full blown lotus, bhadrāsana and an auspicious vase respectively. This is the oldest known representation of aștamangalas of Jainas. The side posts are typical Persian Achaemenian style. The family of Simhanādika was
a Vanika as per the inscription. 7) Āyāgapața set up by the wife of Bhadranandi 19 (fig. 111, J. 252
LM.) : This tablet is cracked from the right corner, but represents one of the best geometrical diagrams. At the centre a Jina is sitting under
18 Smith, Jaina Stūpa..of Mathurā, preface, pp-5. 19 I) Shah U.P., SJA, fig. 10.,
II) Smith V., Jaina Stūpa.. of Mathurā, pl XI, pp 18.
