Which museums in Uttar Pradesh preserve Buddhist art and archaeological objects?

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Several museums in Uttar Pradesh are renowned for preserving significant Buddhist art and archaeological objects:

  • Sarnath Museum: Located at the site where the Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon, this museum specializes in Buddhist antiquities. It houses masterpieces of Indian art, including the famous image of the seated Buddha preaching and the Lion Capital of Ashoka.123
  • Archaeological Museum at Mathura: This institution holds a vast collection of sculptures, including significant examples of the Mathura school of art, which played a pivotal role in the early development of the Buddha image. It also preserves various Kushan-era portrait sculptures and Hindu divinities.145
  • State Museum, Lucknow: This museum features a notable collection of railing pillars and yakshi figures recovered from Kankali Tila, which provide insight into the artistic traditions of the region.14
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan: Situated in Varanasi, this museum is dedicated to the study and preservation of art and archaeology, containing various historical artifacts from the region.1
  • Allahabad Museum: Located in Prayagraj, this institution also serves as a key repository for archaeological objects and art.1