Before the 1st century AD, Buddhist art relied on O A. Greek styles
B. Chinese materials
O C. Buddha statues
D. symbolism

D. Symbolism

Explanation:

The art in the times before the 1st century AD is called the Pre-iconic phase as it did not represent the face and bodily depictions of Buddha. He was never depicted in the human form that we imagine today. The art was rich with Buddhist symbolism and Buddha presented through the abstract forms and symbols – dharma wheel, endless knot, white parasol, lotus flower, etc.

In the 1st century AD, likely influenced by Greco-Roman art, Buddhist art entered into the iconic phase. This means the image of anthropomorphic Buddha started to appear more, although the symbolism that was adopted beforehand remains and is used until today.