Central Asia, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 200 BCE to 100 CE. A remarkable schist, hand-sculpted to display the head of Siddhartha - Buddha as a young royal before his enlightenment - in high relief. The visage of the tranquil prince is shown in 3/4 view, as he gazes downwards and to his left with generously lidded, almond-shaped eyes beneath an arched brow. His serene face exhibits a naturalistic nose, bowed lips held closed, and a round chin, all flanked by a pair of petite ears with sizeable adornments - the weight of which would later leave Siddhartha with the characteristic long-lobed ears of Buddha, once he casts off his earthly possessions in favor of enlightenment. An elaborate, turban-like headdress caps his head, sitting atop a short coiffure. The details around him have softened with age, though it appears he is stretching one hand outward to rest on an object to his left. The liberal remains of a palmette design decorate the background. Size: 5" W x 7.8" H (12.7 cm x 19.8 cm); 7.5" H (19 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 includes 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.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired 1995 to 2010

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#168276

Fragment of a larger piece. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with impressive preservation of detail on head and light earthen deposits throughout.