Indian sculptors often endowed their life-like creations with slim waists, lithe limbs and a youthful or sensuous poise. Ancient sculptural schools flourished and died with the civilizations that nourished them. Over time, regional styles and variations developed - modulating older forms and preferences. Often, ancient and medieval Indian sculptors were also nature-worshippers. Trees, creepers and flowers along with birds and deer are depicted with a loving grace.
Abstract figurations are also to be found in the sculptors palette.
Unlike most secular buildings that were made of earth and wood in ancient India, Indian temples and Stupas were largely built of stone. These have survived the passage of time. Some of the earliest bronzes in India date to the Harappan period. Indian sculpture thus serves as an important testimonial role in piecing together the history of the sub-continent. From the 6th century onwards, outstanding regional schools developed throughout India - as for example in Ajanta, Elephanta, Ellora, Aihole, Pattadkal, Badami, Mandsaur, Mahabalipuram, Mahoba, Vidisha, Patan, Bhubaneshwar, Konarak, Tanjore, Madurai, Khajuraho and Chittaurgarh.