Shakuntala plaque
| Title | Shakuntala plaque |
| Museum Name | Indian Museum, Kolkata |
| Gallery Name | Archaeology |
| Object Type | Sculpture |
| Main Material | Terracotta |
| Country | India |
| Provenance | Bhita, Allahabad, U.P |
| Origin Place | Bhita, Allahabad, U.P |
| Period / Year of Work | C 2nd century BCE Sunga |
| Dimensions | Dia 7.7 cm |
| Brief Description | This is a mould made terracotta medallion with perforation on one side for suspension. Representation on the plaque helped to convey the story of "Abhijgana Sakuntalam". This roundel depicts a very detailed miniature depiction in a great reduced scale. Illustration on the plaque is done by incised lines, a delicate and tough technique. Both sides of the medallion portray the same scene. According to the scholar the plaque represents Karnamuni's hermitage. King Dushyanta is seen riding on a chariot drawn by four horses. There are depictions of peacock, deer and a hut surrounded with pond. Shakuntala is seen receiving water from pond. Anasua and Priyamvada are illustrated at the top of the plaque. This is a beautiful narrative representation of culture and history. |