Which of the following was NOT an artisan guild during the Mauryan period?

The correct answer is Astrologers.

Key Points

• During the Mauryan period, various artisan guilds played a significant role in the economy and society.
• The guilds were associations of craftsmen and merchants who controlled the practice of their craft in a particular town.
• Potters, carpenters, and bankers and merchants were among the established guilds during this period.
• The guilds provided training, maintained standards, and often had significant influence over the local economy.
• However, astrologers were not organized into guilds during the Mauryan period as their profession was more individualistic and did not involve the same level of collective production or commerce as the other guilds.

 Additional Information

• Potters
  • Pottery was an essential craft during the Mauryan period, providing everyday items for cooking, storage, and rituals.
  • Potters were organized into guilds to ensure quality and manage distribution.
• Carpenters
  • Carpentry involved the making of wooden structures, tools, and furniture, which were crucial for both domestic and commercial use.
  • Carpenters were organized into guilds to standardize practices and maintain trade secrets.
• Bankers and Merchants
  • Bankers and merchants played a key role in the Mauryan economy, facilitating trade and commerce.
  • They were often organized into guilds to regulate trade, ensure fair practices, and protect their economic interests.