The religious images of Kushan sculptures are especially known for the Buddha statues. The features of Kushan sculptures were highly influenced by the Greco-Roman architecture. The Kushan period was marked for setting the principles for making sculptural images that continued to influence the art of sculpturing for many years. During the time of Kushans, Buddha was first shown in human form in this region. Earlier to this period, using various symbols like lotus and footsteps represented him. Not only Buddhist art was developed but also other Hindu and Jain deities from India began to be portrayed in human form.

It was under the Kushan rulers that the Gandhara School of Art developed. The sculptures of Gandhara are reminiscent of Hellenistic art. The Hellenistic art had originated in the second century and it was seen that it is highly influential in the countries from central and eastern Asia. Ivories and imported glass and lacquerware, seem to add in the cosmopolitan tastes of that time and extensive trade was also identified as the characteristic of this period. Most of artworks like stupas and monasteries were adorned with relief sculptures & often carved in dark schist. With these, figures shown in classical poses with flowing Hellenistic draperies were also found its presence here.

While the Gandhara School flourished in South India, North India became popular for the Mathura School of Art. The sculpture in Mathura had more local flavour as these were inspired from local folk deities called Yakshas and Yakshis and other local gods and goddesses and themes from day-to-day life. The representation of the beauty of the female in sculpturing forms of images was the specialty of their art. The artists of Mathura succeeded in creating the ideal Indian beauty, which can be marked by oval faced with ample breasts, slender waist, and broad hips.

Apart from these two schools of art stupas and caves were also an integral part of Kushan architecture. The caves of Kushan Period were mainly known for their intricate sculptures. The caves have enhanced the beauty of Indian rock architecture. This form of sculpture also thrived in Mathura. In fact the rock architecture at Mathura throws a considerable light on the then political and cultural scenario. Other than these the other architectural marvels of this period comprise sculpture of Amravati Stupas, sculpture of Jagayyapeta Stupas and sculpture of Nagarjunikonda Stupas.