Art and Artifacts
Harappan art was realistic and utilitarian. They did not build massive temples or statues of kings, but their small-scale art is exquisite.
Key Artifacts
- The “Priest King”: A stone statue of a bearded man wearing a shawl with trefoil patterns.
- The “Dancing Girl”: A bronze figurine (approx 10 cm) from Mohenjo-daro. She stands confidently with one hand on her hip, arm covered in bangles.
- Terracotta Toys: Whistles, carts, birds, and animals, showing that children were well cared for and amused.
Social Hierarchy
While we don’t know if they had “Kings,” the society was divided:
- Elites: Lived in the Citadel, used luxury items (carnelian, gold).
- Commoners: Lived in the Lower Town, engaged in agriculture and crafts.
Religion (Inferred)
- Nature Worship: Trees (Pipal) and animals (Bull, Tiger).
- Figures: Terracotta figurines of women (Mother Goddess?) and the “Pashupati” seal (a deity seated in yoga posture surrounded by animals).
- No Temples: Unlike Egypt/Mesopotamia, no clear temple structures have been found.
Note
The Script: The Harappan script remains undeciphered. It is written on seals, copper plates, and pots. It was likely written from right to left.