Central Asia, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 100 CE. A triangular fragment of a schist relief depicting Buddha and an attendant, the attendant standing below Buddha and holding a large floral item. Buddha has the traditional head of curled hair and large ushnisha, indicating his state of enlightenment. Alongside the attendant, a column that branches into several overlaid leaf fronds. 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 depicting the Buddha are 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 styles from all sides, blended into a uniquely Gandharan tradition. Size: 5.2" W x 8.75" H (13.2 cm x 22.2 cm); 10.5" H (26.7 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection
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#140492
Condition
Piece is a fragment as shown, with slightly rough edges. The attendant's face is lost, while the Buddha's face is nicely preserved. Deposits cover much of the surface but there is nice preservation of detail.