A GRAY SCHIST FIGURE OF MAITREYA WITH WORSHIPPER, ANCIENT REGION OF GANDHARA
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Description
Kushan period, 2nd-3rd century. Finely carved standing in a tribhanga, the figure dressed in a finely pleated robe draped elegantly over his shoulder and adorned with jewelry. His face bears a serene, introspective expression, marked by heavy-lidded eyes, gently arched brows, full lips, and a wavy mustache. His hair is gathered in a high chignon centered by a small stupa, backed by a halo, flanked by a small figure of a worshipper with both hands held together in adoration.
Provenance: From the collection of Rene Ronveaux (d. 1991), Belgium, probably acquired in the Luxembourg or Belgian trade during the 1980s, and thence by descent to Robert Ronveaux (b. 1955). A copy of a provenance statement, written and signed by Robert Ronveaux, dated 11 September 2023, confirming the above, accompanies this lot.
Condition: Good condition, commensurate with age. Extensive wear, obvious losses, chips, nicks, signs of weathering and erosion, encrustations, all as expected.
Weight: 4, 196 g (incl. stand)
Dimensions: Height 45 cm (excl. stand), 48 cm (incl. stand)
Mounted on an associated stand. (2)
According to Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is a bodhisattva who will appear on Earth in the future, achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure dharma. According to ancient scriptures, Maitreya will be a successor to the present Buddha. The prophecy of his arrival refers to a time in the future when the dharma will have been forgotten by most of the terrestrial world. In the ancient Greco-Buddhist arts of Gandhara, during the first centuries in northern India, Maitreya was the most popular figure to be represented along with Buddha Gautama.
Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Christie's New York, 16 September 2008, lot 319
Price: USD 5,875 or approx. EUR 7,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A gray schist figure of Maitreya, Gandhara, 2nd-3rd century
Expert remark: Compare the related modeling and manner of carving with similar jewelry, halo, and devotee at the top. Note the much smaller size (25.1 cm).
Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Christie's New York, 20 September 2007, lot 235
Price: USD 6,875 or approx. EUR 9,400 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A gray schist figure of Maitreya with attendant, Gandhara, 2nd/3rd century
Expert remark: Compare the related subject and manner of carving. Note the related size (46.9 cm).
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