The zenith of India’s architecture, sculpture, painting etc. is observed in the Gupta period. The art of Gupta period is notable for its Indianisation, expression of beauty, expression of feelings and spirituality. Architecture – Gupta period temples show examples of ‘Nagar’ style.

Its general features were – Adhar Pitheeka’, ‘Garbhagriha’, ‘Sabha Mandap’, ‘Shikhar’, ‘Antaral’, ‘Pradakshina’ and sculptures of Ganga-Yamuna at the gates.

Sculpture – Mathura, Sarnath, and Patliputra were major centres of sculpture. Statues were made of metal, stone and clay. Sculpting was done in accordance with the classical laws. Buddha of Sultanganj, Mahavir of Mathura, Vishnu of Mathura and Deogarh, Varah sculptures of Aran and Udaigiri are fine examples of sculpture.

Painting – The best examples of Gupta paintings have been found in Ajanta and Bagh caves of Gwalior. Natural beauty, Buddha and Bodhisattva and descriptive scenes of Jatak tales are found in Ajanta paintings. Beautiful imagination, brillance of colours, beauty of lines, diversity of subject, richness of expression and skillful conveyance of thoughts make the paintings of Ajanta incomparable.

Literature – Literature made astounding progress in the Gupta period. Sanskrit language and complex ornamental style was developed. The Prashastis of Mehrauli and Prayag were created. Bhasha wrote, ‘Swapna – Vasavadutta’, Vishakhadutta wrote, “Mudra Rakshsas. kalidas wrote, “Abhijnana shakuntalam,’ and ‘Raghuvansham.’ Prakrit tomes were written in this period. Worldly literature was prolific in this period.