Along with wood, stone and brick were extensively used during :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct answer to the question is Option 2: Maurya period. Here's a detailed explanation supporting this choice and why the other options are incorrect:

1. **Explanation for Option 2 (Maurya period):**
   - The Maurya period, which lasted from approximately 322 to 185 BCE, is renowned for its significant advancements in architecture and urban planning. During this era, the use of stone and brick, along with wood, became prominent in construction. The Mauryan rulers, particularly Emperor Ashoka, were instrumental in promoting the use of stone for building purposes. This period saw the construction of grand structures such as palaces, stupas, and pillars, many of which were made using stone and brick. The Ashokan pillars, made of polished sandstone, are exemplary of the sophisticated stonework of the time. The use of durable materials like stone and brick was encouraged to create lasting monuments and infrastructure, reflecting the empire's power and stability.

2. **Why the other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1 (Gupta period):**
     - The Gupta period, which followed the Maurya period, is often referred to as the Golden Age of India due to its advancements in arts, science, and culture. While stone and brick were used during this time, the period is more noted for its development in sculpture and temple architecture, particularly the use of stone in intricate carvings. The emphasis was more on artistic expression rather than the extensive use of stone and brick for basic construction, as seen in the Maurya period.

- **Option 3 (Sung-Satvahan period):**
     - The Satavahana dynasty, also known as the Sungas, ruled after the Mauryas and before the Guptas. While they did contribute to architectural developments, their use of stone and brick was not as extensive or pioneering as during the Maurya period. The Satavahanas are more known for their rock-cut architecture, such as the Ajanta caves, rather than widespread use of stone and brick in urban construction.

- **Option 4 (Kushan period):**
     - The Kushan period, which overlapped with the early centuries CE, is notable for its contributions to art and culture, particularly the Gandhara and Mathura schools of art. While there was some use of stone and brick, the period is more recognized for its artistic achievements and the spread of Buddhism rather than extensive architectural use of these materials in the manner seen during the Maurya period.

In summary, the Maurya period stands out for its pioneering use of stone and brick in construction, driven by the empire's need for durable and monumental structures, making Option 2 the correct choice.