RED SANDSTONE MALE TORSO (Indus valley civilization) Dr.Guneeta Chadha, Associate professor, H.O.D Fine-Arts Dept, PGGCG-11, Chandigarh. RED SANDSTONE MALE TORSO (Indus valley civilization)

MALE TORSO

Male torso from Harappa, c.2300-1750 One of the most interesting and sophisticated images. Height- 3 inches Made of red limestone National Museum, New Delhi

Despite its small size it suggests monumentality. It appears life-size. Some scholars have challenged its origin of the sculpture. Scholars feel that it could be an importation from the later Mediterranean region, and by chance could be deposited in the debris of the Harappa. Benjamin Rowland believes it to be stylistically and conceptually an Indian creation.

The reason for this we see a later Indian concept of Yogic breath control also known as ‘Prana’ which is used in sculpture to signify inner life and vitality. The image’s prominent belly is also an Indian element, found in sculptures symbolizing physical and spiritual well-being. Similar nude male figures are common later as icons representing Jain Tirthankaras. Despite its controversy of its origin, the image is very powerful and very aesthetically done.