Central Asia, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 200 BCE to 400 CE, probably later in this period based on the use of stucco. A stucco head of a prince, modeled in the traditional Graeco-Buddhist tradition with a full face, fine almond eyes, a naturalistic nose and sensitive mouth, and an ornate headdress, similar to a turban, embellished with beautiful flowers and leaves and wrapped around the head, with curly tendrils cascading to either side of the face. In addition, two grand, highly decorated ear ornaments dangle below. Size: 8.5" L x 7.75" W x 9.75" H (21.6 cm x 19.7 cm x 24.8 cm); 15.125" H (38.4 cm) on included custom stand.
Alexander the Great conquered Gandhara in 330 BCE and with the help of the Indo-Greek kings introduced classical traditions that would influence Gandharan art for the following seven centuries. The stylized curly Mediterranean hair of this bust derives from classical sculptures such as the Apollo Belvedere (330 BCE), and the sensitive modeling of the expressive face demonstrates a classical influence as well.
Gandharans are famous for schist and stucco carvings, with stucco replacing schist as the dominant material around the 3rd century CE. Vast monastic institutions like those at Takht-i-Bahi, Sahri-Bahlol, Jamal Garhi, Ranigat, and Thareli were decorated by skilled artisans with stucco representations of important figures, religious scenes, and artistic dedications. Stucco allowed artists more freedom in portraying lifelike features. During this time, Gandhara was exceptionally wealthy, profiting from trade along the Silk Road; patrons had resources to spend on the arts, creating a flowering of stucco artwork. Some monumental statues had stucco hands, feet, and heads alongside clay torsos - the size of these figures was such that clay was needed to maintain their form.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-private California, USA collection, acquired in 1970's
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#149169
Condition
A section from a larger statue. Repaired from multiple pieces with restoration over the break lines, but very well done.