Northwest Pakistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A grey schist panel skillfully carved in high relief with a scene of seated figure, likely Buddha, with two attendants directly to his left and another on the other side of a Classical column occupying a niche. The two attendants beside the seated figure are turned towards him, and one holds a leafy frond. The figure on the other side of the Classical column is standing guard, wielding a spear/weapon in one hand and placing his other hand on his hip. They are all dressed in finery, with draped robes and headdresses. Interestingly, these figures may have been carved to represent real patrons who wished to pay homage to Buddha by commissioning artwork - a popular practice in ancient Gandhara. They all stand upon a tiered plinth and nice remains of a decorative border are visible. Size: 7.4" W x 4.1" H (18.8 cm x 10.4 cm)
The Gandharan Empire made itself wealthy in part by controlling lucrative trade along the mountain passes between China in the East and the Near East and Mediterranean in the West; a great deal of this wealth went into local patronage of artisans and art. In the first century CE, Buddhism became fashionable amongst Gandharan elites, and the art produced at this time included some of the most striking Buddhist images from the past. Their artistic tradition also reflects the conquest of Alexander the Great and the introduction of Western aesthetics, blended into a uniquely Gandharan tradition.
Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection; ex-Jackson's Auctions, Cedar Falls, Iowa, USA
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#156669
Condition
A fragment of a larger stone carving. Losses to areas of upper and lower borders as well as lateral peripheries as shown. Light encrustations within some recessed areas, softening to finer details, and nicks and abrasions to figures, peripheries, and verso. Smooth surface textures and great remains of detailing throughout.