Sculpture Art in Pyu Era of Ancient Myanmar
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Thawdar Eain (NP News) - Feb 28
The Pyu era, spanning from the 2nd century BCE to the 9th century CE, was a golden age in Myanmar’s history, marked by the rise and prosperity of the Pyu city-states. These early civilizations, flourishing in present-day central Myanmar, were not only pioneers of urban culture but also masterful creators of art, particularly in sculpture. The artistic legacy of the Pyu offers a fascinating glimpse into their religious devotion, societal structure, and aesthetic sensibilities.
Myanmar took great strides to secure international recognition for its three ancient Pyu cities—Halin, Beikthano (Vishnu), and Sriksetra—culminating in their designation as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them, Sriksetra stands as the heart of Pyu artistic expression, where a remarkable collection of sculptures and architectural wonders still whisper the stories of a bygone era. With the arrival of Buddhism, artistic production in the Pyu cities flourished, leaving behind an enduring visual culture that reflects their deep spiritual beliefs.
This study delves into the different types of Pyu pagodas, aiming to preserve the historical significance of these ancient structures for future generations. A descriptive approach is used to illustrate the forms of Pyu-era pagodas, while an analytical method is employed to classify their distinctive architectural styles, particularly those found in Sriksetra. The pagodas and stupas of the Pyu period, scattered across the ancient landscape, exhibit diverse designs—cylindrical stupas, round stupas, and temple structures—all of which have been meticulously examined in this research.
By tracing the evolution of Pyu pagodas, we uncover their deep-rooted influence on the architectural marvels of the later Bagan era. These early masterpieces serve as the precursors of Myanmar’s grand pagodas, bridging the artistic heritage of the Pyu civilization with the timeless elegance of Bagan’s temple city. Through this exploration, we reaffirm the enduring significance of Pyu art and architecture, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and captivate generations to come.
Influences and Themes
The Pyu sculptural tradition was deeply influenced by Indian art, particularly from the Gupta and post-Gupta periods. Buddhism played a central role in Pyu society, which is reflected in their sculptures' predominant themes. Statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and various deities were commonly created, often displaying characteristics of early Southeast Asian Buddhist art. Hindu influences were also present, as seen in sculptures depicting Vishnu, Shiva, and other Hindu deities.
Materials and Techniques
Pyu sculptors primarily worked with stone, bronze, and terracotta. Stone sculptures, often crafted from sandstone, were used to create large statues and relief carvings found in temples and stupas. Bronze casting was another prominent technique, used to produce intricate Buddha images and ritual objects. Terracotta plaques adorned temple walls, featuring scenes from Jataka tales and other religious motifs.
Iconography and Styles
Pyu sculptures exhibit a blend of indigenous and foreign styles. The Buddha statues from this era are characterized by serene expressions, elongated earlobes, and draped robes, reflecting Indian artistic traditions. Some sculptures display stylistic similarities with the Amaravati and Gupta schools of art, evident in the soft modeling of figures and elegant poses. However, local adaptations can be observed, particularly in facial features and decorative elements, which distinguish Pyu art from its Indian counterparts.
Notable Discoveries
Significant archaeological findings related to Pyu sculpture art have been unearthed in ancient Pyu cities such as Beikthano, Halin, and Sri Ksetra. Bronze Buddha images, intricately carved stone reliefs, and terracotta votive tablets are among the most notable discoveries. These artifacts are now preserved in museums, including the National Museum of Myanmar, offering a glimpse into the artistic sophistication of the Pyu civilization.
Legacy and Influence
The artistic legacy of the Pyu era laid the foundation for later Burmese art, particularly in the Pagan (Bagan) period. Many stylistic elements introduced during the Pyu era continued to evolve, shaping the artistic traditions of Myanmar for centuries. The sculptures of this ancient civilization not only serve as a testament to their artistic prowess but also provide crucial historical and cultural insights into early Myanmar.
In conclusion, the sculpture art of the Pyu era represents a rich blend of indigenous creativity and external influences. As archaeological research continues, further discoveries may shed even more light on the artistic achievements of this fascinating period in Myanmar's history.
Reference - The Artistic Monuments of Pyu in Ancient Sriksetra by Khaing Khaing Saw
- https://www.metmuseum.org/
- https://www.originalbuddhas .com/