Northwest Pakistan, Gandhara, Kushan Period, ca. 3rd century CE. Buddha shown in an enlightened state, finely carved from schist, donning ample monk's robes with carefully delineated folds, sitting in lotus position with hands in the meditation mudra (both hands in the lap, face up, resting upon crossed legs, either double lotus or single lotus), with hair pulled back and styled in a topknot or ushnisha, and a serene visage set before a round mandorla with eyes closed in concentration and a feint indictation of an urna in the middle of his forehead. 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 attention to the drapery of the himation, the stylized wavy hair and top knot that derive from the Apollo Belvedere (330 BCE), as well as sensitive modeling of the expressive visage exhibits this classical influence. A rare example of Greco-Buddhist art that demonstrates a strong syncretism between eastern and western traditions. A wonderful Serenity Buddha that most certainly engenders a sense of calmness for anyone seeking peace. Size: 5.5" W x 10.25" H (14 cm x 26 cm)

Provenance: Ex- Private New Jersey collection acquired before 1990

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#112945

Thumbs missing. Repairs to mandorla, more visible from the back, with some losses as shown.