Ancient India

Indus Valley Civilization

The Arts, Technology and Trade of the Classical Harappan

The cities of the Harappan covered a vast amount of territory, making trade between different cities and villages vital. A wide variety of traded and localized goods were found throughout Harappan settlements (all of which were of a marked high quality). Goods found at the Harappa site alone, in the workshops of coppersmiths, weavers, potters, and bead makers show that the arts practiced were highly time consuming and specialized. Little deviation is found in artistic styles from region to region, although there is some evidence to suggest that certain artifacts were associated with a possible social caste system. By 2,000 BC the technologies and the arts of the Harappan were well developed. Produced goods were mostly made for utilitarian ends. However some copper pieces, metalwork, beadwork and seals were used for decoration. The scenes in such artwork often show depictions of animals or religious ceremonies, with an obvious emphasis and time taken on exacting detail.

The Harappans were not limited to trading within their own villages. Geographic sea ports and other trade routes were utilized fully as is evidenced by the numerous sites and cities that bloomed around them. Speculation remains about the conditions involved with long distance trade and the use of the trade goods received from such exploits. However, it is obvious that the Harappans relied heavily upon this trade.

An intricate system of weight involving small stone cubes was perhaps the standard weight and measure system of Harappan civilization.. These cubes start at a base weight of just under a 1/2 ounce (the smallest of weights found in a jewelers shop) and increment upward in units of 1, 2, 64 and finally 160. Such a weight system not only shows that a barter or economic system was in place with the Harappans, but along with other non-indigenous goods found throughout Harappan settlements suggests a formalized system of trade. Traded goods included gold, copper, and carnelian; there were undoubtedly other, perishable, goods traded. Large vessels found near the site indicate that trade extended to such areas as Afghanistan, the Persian Gulf, and parts of Arabia and Africa. Ultimately, the reliance on trade and the noted ability in artistic craftsmanship, all lead to the conclusion that by 2,500 BC Harappan civilization was a distinct and unified culture that encompassed a great deal of territory.