Central Asia, Northwest Pakistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A fabulous carved grey schist sculpture of a seated woman. Draped in a long robe, the fascinating figure displays a slender body with large breasts and both arms bent at the elbows as she turns her head slightly to her left, presenting a naturalistic visage of annular eyes, a petite nose, and full, bowed lips. She is heavily adorned with several bangles, sizeable earrings, and a detailed headdress. Size: 3.625" W x 6.5" H (9.2 cm x 16.5 cm); 7.25" H (18.4 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 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 York, New York, USA collection; ex-private collection, Pierre Hotel, New York, USA, 1990s

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#163887

Fragment of a larger piece. Repair and restoration to top and base. Some light nicks, abrasions, and softening of detail, all commensurate with age. Drill hole in base for attachment to stand. Some loss to top of head and right leg. Otherwise, very nice with rich earthen deposits throughout.