Central Asia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Gandharan Empire, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. A finely carved grey schist carving of Buddha standing upon an integral stone base. The face, hair, and ears are skillfully delineated; note the Buddha's downturned eyes, slender nose, thin lips, and wavy coiffure. He is looking slightly left with a serene expression. The drapery folds of the robe are carved with great attention. The elongated earlobes stretched from jewelry and the coronal halo are characteristic of the Buddha and reflect the artist's sensitive attention to detail. Size: 5.25" W x 14.875" H (13.3 cm x 37.8 cm); 16.75" H (42.5 cm) on included custom stand.
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, which this Buddha exemplifies. The curly hair and top-knot look of this sculpture and others from the same tradition were likely influenced by the Belvedere Apollo. (ca. 330 BCE).
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection
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#157778
Condition
Some losses as shown to top edge of halo. Missing a hand. Nice earthen encrustations and details.