Question

Which of the following statements accurately describe Harappan seals?
I. Harappan seals often feature animal motifs.
II. Harappan seals were made of terracotta with symbols.
III. Harappan seals were known for military victories.
IV. Harappan seals were predominantly used in burials.

• A. Statements I and II are correct.
• B. Statements I and III are correct.
• C. Statements II and III are correct.
• D. Statements III and IV are correct.

Hint:

Harappan seals are essential for understanding the socio-economic and religious aspects of the Indus Valley Civilization. They were used for trade, administration, and possibly for religious or ceremonial purposes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Harappan seals are crucial artifacts of the Indus Valley Civilization, offering significant insights into their culture and practices. Let's analyze the statements:
1. Statement I: Harappan seals often feature animal motifs.
This statement is correct. Many seals depict animals like elephants, unicorns, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses, which likely represented deities or symbolic figures.
2. Statement II: Harappan seals were made of terracotta with symbols.
This statement is partially incorrect. While seals featured symbols, they were primarily crafted from steatite (soapstone), not terracotta. The symbols were typically pictographs or animal depictions.
3. Statement III: Harappan seals were known for military victories.
This statement is incorrect. Unlike Mesopotamian seals, Harappan seals rarely depicted military achievements. Their focus was on animals, deities, and trade symbols.
4. Statement IV: Harappan seals were predominantly used in burials.
This statement is partially true; some seals have been found in burials. However, their primary function was trade, serving as markers or identifiers for merchants and goods, not predominantly for burials.
Conclusion:
Statements I and II accurately describe aspects of Harappan seals, although Statement II requires clarification regarding the material.