One of the major features of Mauryan sculpture is the usage of rocks as building materials. The concept of religious sculpture was also predominant during the Mauryan Empire. In fact it has often been pointed out that the use of cut stone in the religious sculpture first came into vogue in the Mauryan era. Mauryan sculptures have been dominated by Buddhist temples and caves. The caves have been clearly inspired by the Indian Vedic sculpture. The other features of Mauryan sculpture include the stupas, chaityas and viharas.

The influence on sculpture was mainly due to Ashoka`s conversion to Buddhism. He has left behind his beliefs inscribed on the stone columns or rocks. In places like Lumbini Park, Sanchi and Sarnath there are pillars that are part of the Mauryan architecture. While discussing the features of Mauryan sculpture one will definitely come across the monasteries. These units form an integral part of the Buddhist religious architectures. Jetavana monastery at Sravasti was rebuilt by Ashoka with solid materials like brick and stone so that it can survive the ravages of time. Thus the chaitya halls, stupas and columns came into existence.

The pillars at Chunar, near Varanasi, are the essential examples of Mauryan sculptures. In fact the pillars built by Ashoka are appropriate examples of sculptures due to the carved figurines etched on them. These structures have been accompanied by terracotta gods and goddess. The Mauryan sculptures have an earthy charm. The terracotta objects have been found in Taxila.

The tradition of rock cut sculpture, which was dominant from the 2nd century BC to the end of first millennium AD, has its roots in the Mauryan period. At a later stage these sculptures became characteristic features of Indian architecture. Besides these the features of Mauryan sculpture were also influenced by Shaivism and Vaishnavism.