The Development of Hindu Iconography c11.4

c11.4

¹ J. Allan, Op. cit., pp. xciv, 147, Pl. XIX, 13. An elaborate form of the same symbol appears on the Aśvamedha type coins of the Gupta emperors, Samudragupta and Kumāragupta I. I have referred to this symbol, though it does not represent an icon, for showing how Vedic ceremonial religious practice is being portrayed by a few at least of these tribal coins. In my paper on 'Devices on Some Tribal Coins', published in I.H.Q., Vol. XVI, 497 ff., I have adduced grounds for explaining the 'Bull before yūpa' symbol as associated with the Śūlagava sacrifice mentioned in the Gṛhyasūtras. The performance of this sacrifice resulted in the acquisition of wealth and prosperity.