UPSC Prelims 2001 Q47: Ancient History – Indus Valley Civilization
Which one of the following animals was NOT represented on the seals and terracotta art of
the Harappan culture?
- (a) Cow
- (b) Elephant
- (c) Rhinoceros
- (d) Tiger
Answer: (a) Cow
Explanation
Animal NOT represented on Harappan seals and terracotta art
| Animal | In Harappan art? |
|---|---|
| Cow | Not found — the bull is common, but the cow is not shown |
| Elephant | Found on seals |
| Rhinoceros | Found, including on the 'Pashupati' seal |
| Tiger | Found, including on the 'Pashupati' seal |
Harappan seals show the humped bull, unicorn, elephant, rhinoceros, tiger, buffalo and others. The cow is not represented, which is a well-known point in the study of the Indus civilisation. The horse is also generally absent.
Answer: (a) Cow.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. The cow is not represented on Harappan seals or terracottas.
- (b) Incorrect. The elephant appears on Harappan seals.
- (c) Incorrect. The rhinoceros appears on seals, including the Pashupati seal.
- (d) Incorrect. The tiger appears on seals, including the Pashupati seal.
Key point
Pashupati seal (Mohenjo-daro): seated figure with elephant, tiger, rhinoceros and buffalo around, two deer below.
Remember
Harappan seals: bull and unicorn yes; cow no.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the cow was shown because of its later importance.
- Thinking the bull and the cow count as the same.
- Forgetting the animals on the Pashupati seal.
Exam tip
For Harappan 'NOT shown' questions, think of the cow and the horse first.
Sources
- NCERT Class XII — Themes in Indian History Part I, chapter 'Bricks, Beads and Bones'
- R. S. Sharma — India's Ancient Past, chapter on the Harappan culture