Explanation:

During the time of Ashoka, the inscription of pillars – as a symbol of the state or to commemorate battle victories – assumed a great significance. He also used pillars to propagate imperial sermons as well. On an average of 40 feet high, the pillars were usually made of chunar sandstone and comprised of four parts. A long Shaft formed the base and was made up of a single piece of stone or monolith. On top of it lay the capital, which was either lotus shaped or bell shaped. The bell shaped capitals were influenced by the Iranian pillars, as was the highly polished and lustrous finish of the pillars. Above the capital, there was a circular or rectangular base known on the abacus on which an animal figure was placed.