A newly discovered Copperplate from Tippera
By Dinesh Chandra Bhattacharya
Summary
A newly discovered copperplate from Tipper, dated to the Gupta era (c. 488 CE), was found in Gunaighar village near Comilla, Bengal. The oblong copperplate, measuring approximately 10x6.5 inches and weighing about 146 grams, bears inscriptions on both sides, with 23 lines on the obverse and 8 on the reverse. The plate features a royal seal with a bull emblem and the legend "Maharaja Sri Vainyagupta." The date is expressed as "Samvat 808, Pausa, current year, 24th day," corresponding to December 13, 488 CE. This marks the earliest known use of the term "Varttamana" (current year) in Gupta inscriptions, supporting the interpretation of Gupta-era dates as current years. The script exhibits the Eastern variety of Northern Gupta script, with distinct letter forms and vowel marks. The plate confirms the chronological sequence of letter shapes in East Bengal inscriptions, bridging gaps in records from the 5th-6th centuries CE. The language is Sanskrit, with prose content except for three standard verses. Notable linguistic features include the dual number construction and Buddhist-influenced terminology. The plate’s physical condition is fair, though some letters are eroded or obscured. [Post-publication update: Subsequent studies have further validated the plate’s significance in refining Gupta-era chronology and script evolution.]
Conclusion
This newly discovered copperplate from Tipper provides significant insights into the administrative and linguistic practices of the Gupta period, particularly highlighting the early use of the term *varttamana* (current year) alongside expired years. The unique date symbols, though partially effaced, offer valuable paleographic evidence, challenging prior assumptions about Gupta-era chronology. The plate's distinctive script and seal emblem further enrich our understanding of regional inscriptions from this era, positioning it as a critical artifact for refining historical timelines and linguistic evolution in early medieval Bengal. Its discovery underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in deciphering fragmented historical records, contributing to a more nuanced comprehension of Gupta-era documentation practices.