Copper Plate Inscriptions

Copper Plate Inscriptions (Tamrasasana) are official records inscribed on copper plates, used across India from the early historic period onward.

Overview

Copper plate inscriptions are official documents inscribed on copper plates, recording land grants, royal decrees, and other administrative decisions. They were widely used across India from the early historic period through the medieval era and provide crucial evidence for political, economic, and social history.

Historical Context

Copper plates were used as a durable medium for recording important documents, as they were resistant to decay and forgery. The practice of issuing copper plate grants became widespread from the Gupta period onward. Multiple dynasties, including the Pallavas, Cholas, Chalukyas, and Rashtrakutas, issued copper plate grants.

Features/Significance

Copper plate inscriptions typically record land grants made by rulers to Brahmins or religious institutions. They contain information about the grantor, the recipient, the land granted, and the conditions of the grant. The inscriptions are important for understanding land tenure, administrative systems, and social hierarchies.

Modern Status

Copper plate inscriptions are studied by epigraphers and historians to understand medieval Indian history. Many are preserved in museums, university collections, and government archives.

Verification Notes

• Used from early historic period through medieval era
• Found across the Indian subcontinent
• Record land grants, royal decrees, and administrative decisions