Ashoka Lion Capital: Legacy and Gupta Adaptations The Lion Capital of Emperor Ashoka represents one of the finest achievements of Mauryan imperial art and political symbolism. The most celebrated example comes from Sarnath, where four back-to-back lions crowned a polished sandstone pillar, symbolizing universal sovereignty and the spread of Dhamma. The abacus below displays animals and the Dharma Chakra, carved with remarkable refinement. Beyond Sarnath, lion capitals were discovered at Lauriya