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Topic Iconography
Asked 3 times across 2 UPSC exams over 1 years (2023–2024), peaking in 2023.
Key insights
- Most tested in CDS — 2 of 3 PYQs
- Most asked in 2023
- Recurs across 2 years (2023–2024)
Across exams
CDS · 2CSE · 1How the concept evolved
Rising — more than half its appearances (2 of 3) are since 2016.
Related concepts
Ideas UPSC tests alongside this one — keep exploring.
Sample questions
You've seen the pattern — here are a few of the actual PYQs.
CDS2024
Consider the following statements about the Ancient Hindu metal images in India
- The Chola period is well known for the aesthetic and technical finesse of its metal sculpture
- The iconography and style of Chola metal images were similar to those of their stone counterparts
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
- A 1 only
- B 2 only
- C Both 1 and 2 ✓
- D Neither 1 nor 2
✓ Correct answer: (C)
Art & Culture › Architecture & Sculpture
CDS2023
Consider the following statements with reference to the Nataraj bronze sculpture of Chola period
- Shiva is shown balancing himself on his right leg representing tirobhava
- Shiva is shown raising his left leg in bhujangatrasita stance, representing kicking away the illusion from the devotee's mind
- The main right hand holds the damaru, Shiva's favourite musical instrument
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
- A 1 only
- B 2 only ✓
- C 2 and 3 only
- D 1, 2 and 3
✓ Correct answer: (B)
Art & Culture › Architecture & Sculpture
CSE
Which one of the following animals was not represented on the seal and terracotta art of the Harappan culture?
- A Cow ✓
- B Elephant
- C Rhinoceros
- D Tiger
✓ Correct answer: (A)
History › Ancient India
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