Attributes of Mauryan art and architecture

• Megasthenes’ Indica is a source of the details of Mauryan art and culture. The Greek diplomat mentioned the art forms and the societal pattern of the period in the book. 
• The glossy texture was the main feature of the stone sculpture and pillars. And these were made with sandstone.
• Wood was the main material used to build architecture like royal palaces. 
• The monolith patterns of the Mauryan pillars looked almost like Persian pillars.
• The architecture of the Mauryan era represents the period’s religious, social, and cultural status.  
• Various architecture also revealed the languages spoken, like inscriptions on emperor Ashoka’s pillars. 
• Common people were interested in creating and preserving art and architecture. 

The art and culture of the Mauryan period (322-185 BCE) contribute a significant part in framing ancient Indian architecture in history. The mighty kings of the Mauryan empire played an essential role in establishing and improving the art and culture of the age. Mauryan kings like Chandragupta Maurya, Bindusara, and Ashoka focused on establishing certain kinds of art and architecture in the Mauryan kingdom. This particular type of art and architecture had some unique features, known as Mauryan art and architecture.