Module: | Subsistence, Agriculture & Animal Hubandry
Q10: Consider the following statements regarding food processing implements and saddle querns in the Harappan civilization:
1. Saddle querns were the only means of grinding cereals found at Mohenjodaro, typically made of hard, gritty, igneous rock or sandstone.
2. Excavations reveal two main types of saddle querns: one on which a smaller stone was pushed to and fro, and another used for pounding herbs and spices with a base stone.
3. Early archaeologists, such as Ernest Mackay, completely ignored these everyday utilitarian objects, focusing their reports entirely on luxury gold and silver artifacts.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
2. Excavations reveal two main types of saddle querns: one on which a smaller stone was pushed to and fro, and another used for pounding herbs and spices with a base stone.
3. Early archaeologists, such as Ernest Mackay, completely ignored these everyday utilitarian objects, focusing their reports entirely on luxury gold and silver artifacts.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
✅ Correct Answer: A
🎯 Quick Answer:
Option A is the correct answer because statement 3 is factually inaccurate regarding the focus of early archaeologists like Ernest Mackay.Structural Breakdown: Saddle querns are characterized by a roughly convex base, usually set in the earth to prevent rocking.
The first type operated with a smaller rolling/pushing stone strictly for cereals.
The second type featured a deep central depression from the heavy pounding of a second stone, primarily used for curries and spices.
Historical/Related Context: Contrary to the claim in statement 3, Ernest Mackay detailed these specific domestic implements extensively in his 1937 publication "Further Excavations at Mohenjodaro," recognizing their vital role in reconstructing the daily lives of the common people.
Causal Reasoning: The reliance on hard, gritty igneous rock or sandstone for these querns was a deliberate material choice.
The rough texture was necessary to create enough friction to effectively break down tough cereal grains and fibrous herbs, demonstrating a practical understanding of material utility in domestic engineering.