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Lion Capital of Ashoka - Relic
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Lion Capital of Ashoka

description Lion Capital of Ashoka Overview

The Lion Capital of Ashoka is a 3rd-century BCE Mauryan pillar capital from Sarnath, India, notable as the model for India's state emblem.

help Lion Capital of Ashoka FAQ

Where is the original Lion Capital of Ashoka located?

The original polished sandstone sculpture is housed in the archaeological museum at Sarnath, near Varanasi, India. It was found by archaeologists during excavations at the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath.

What is the Lion Capital of Ashoka used to represent today?

The Lion Capital was adopted as the official National Emblem of India in 1950. The sculpture appears on Indian currency, passports, and all official government documents.

What animals are depicted on the Lion Capital of Ashoka?

The top of the capital features four Asiatic lions standing back-to-back facing the four cardinal directions. Below the lions is a cylindrical abacus carved with sculptures of a galloping elephant, a horse, a bull, and a lion, separated by intervening wheels.

Who commissioned the Lion Capital of Ashoka?

The pillar was erected by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire during the 3rd century BCE. Ashoka commissioned thousands of these pillars across his empire to spread his edicts and the teachings of Buddhism.

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