The study of inscriptions is termed as _________.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Epigraphy
Option (1) Epigraphy — Correct. Epigraphy is the study of inscriptions. Some of its most important developments came in the 1830s, when James Prinsep deciphered Brahmi and Kharosthi.
Option (2) Numismatics — Incorrect. Numismatics is the study of coins, including their scripts and images, their metal and the places where they have been found.
Option (3) Archaeology — Incorrect. Archaeology studies the past through material remains such as buildings, pottery, tools and other artefacts dug up at sites; it is much wider than the reading of inscriptions.
Option (4) Palaeography — Incorrect. Palaeography is the study of styles of writing; inscriptions that carry no date are dated on its basis, from the way letters were written in each period.
NCERT (2026-27): “1. Prinsep and Piyadassi Epigraphy is the study of inscriptions. Some of the most momentous developments in Indian epigraphy took place in the 1830s. This was when James Prinsep, an officer in the mint of the East India Company, deciphered Brahmi and Kharosthi, two scripts used in the earliest inscriptions and coins.… 2.1 The sixteen mahajanapadas … Inscriptions are virtually permanent records, some of which carry dates. Others are dated on the basis of palaeography or styles of writing, with a fair amount of precision.… 6.4 Coins and kings … Could it be that there are fewer finds because coins were in circulation rather than being hoarded? Numismatics is the study of coins, including visual elements such as scripts and images, metallurgical analysis and the contexts in which they have been found.” |