Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v1.c28.s3.8

v1.c28.s3.8

In our chapter 8 on the chalcolithic cultures of peninsular India, we discussed the cache of four solid bronze figures excavated at Dāimābād. Made of low arsenic alloy, the four pieces, namely an exquisite chariot pulled by a pair of bull-horse ‘unicorn’s’ an elephant, a rhinoceros and a buffalo corresponded to the Late-Harappan Period (2000-1800 BC). The wheeled bronzes must have played an important role in the religious life of the people, serving as vāhanas of deities. The tradition persisted, and we find from the Jorwe level at Dāimābād a terracotta cylinder seal depicting a procession, and a unique terracotta, covered by a coat of red ochre, showing the figure of a deified sage and three consorts united with him.