The stupa was probably begun in the time of Ashoka (c. 250 BCE). It was originally built of brick, and it was enlarged during the 2nd century BCE, when a surrounding stone railing with entrances on the four cardinal points was constructed. This railing bears a wealth of fine relief carving on its inner face. About the beginning of the 1st century BCE, four stone gateways (toranas), each elaborately carved, were added to the entrances. An inscription on these gateways assigns the work to King Dhanabhuti during the rule of the Shungas (i.e., before 72 BCE). The sculptures adorning the shrine are among the earliest and finest examples of the developing style of Buddhist art in India. See Bharhut sculpture.