Question

Which one of the following does not appear on the abacus of the Sarnath Lion capital of Ashoka?

• A. Bull
• B. Deer
• C. Elephant
• D. Horse

Hint:

On the Sarnath Lion Capital abacus: Elephant, Bull, Horse, and Lion appear. Deer is absent — but often confused due to Sarnath's Buddhist symbolism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: The Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath is India's national emblem. 
Step 2: On its abacus (circular base), four animals are carved: 
- Lion, symbolizing power and courage. 
- Bull, symbolizing hard work and steadfastness. 
- Horse, symbolizing loyalty and energy. 
- Elephant, symbolizing strength and wisdom. 
Step 3: The Deer does not appear on the abacus. The deer instead appears at Sarnath in Buddhist context (Dharmachakra Pravartana scene), but not on the Ashokan Lion Capital. \[ \boxed{\text{Deer}} \]

Answer 2

Listing out the animals actually carved on the abacus of the Lion Capital, then checking which option is missing from that list, gives a direct route to the answer.

1. Option 1 (Bull): The bull is one of the four animals carved on the abacus, representing hard work and endurance.
2. Option 2 (Deer): The deer is not part of the carved abacus; it appears separately in the Sarnath complex in connection with Buddha's first sermon, not on the Lion Capital itself.
3. Option 3 (Elephant): The elephant is carved on the abacus, symbolising strength.
4. Option 4 (Horse): The horse is also present on the abacus, symbolising energy and speed.

Since three of the four animals appear on the abacus and the deer does not, option 2 is the one that fits the question.

Hence, the correct answer is Deer.