Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). \[ \text{Assertion (A): The division of Buddhism between Hinayana and Mahayan is very important from perspective of artistic development.} \] \[ \text{Reason (R): Representation of Buddha in human form came with advent of Mahayan Sect.} \] In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Hint:

Early Buddhism used symbols like footprints and stupa, while later Buddhist art developed the human image of Buddha.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
Buddhist art changed significantly with the development of different Buddhist traditions. Early Buddhist art often used symbols to represent Buddha. Later, the human image of Buddha became popular.

Step 1: Check Assertion (A).
The assertion says that the division between Hinayana and Mahayana is important for artistic development. This is correct because Buddhist art changed with doctrinal and devotional developments.

Step 2: Check Reason (R).
The reason says that the representation of Buddha in human form came with the advent of Mahayana sect. This is also correct in the context of Buddhist art history. Mahayana Buddhism encouraged devotional worship and image-making.

Step 3: Check explanation.
The reason explains why the division is important for art. The shift from symbolic representation to human image of Buddha was a major artistic development.

Step 4: Final conclusion.
Both Assertion and Reason are correct, and Reason correctly explains Assertion. Hence: \[ \boxed{\text{(A)}} \]