2nd-4th century AD. A steatite statue of Buddha sitting cross-legged with hands folded in his lap, frieze of seated figures to the base; mounted on a custom-made stand. 52 kg, 87cm (34"). Property of a Middlesex collector; acquired 2011 from the Kotlar collection, Paris, France; acquired Europe in 1969. Gandhara is noted for the distinctive style of Buddhist art, which developed from a merger of Greek, Syrian, Persian, and Indian artistic influences. This development began during the Parthian Period (50 BC – AD 75) but is most notable for the Hellenistic styles that developed their unique forms through contact with Indian artistic traditions. The Gandharan style flourished and achieved its peak during the Kushan period, from the 1st to the 5th centuries. It declined and was destroyed after the invasion of the White Huns in the 5th century. Prior to the arrival of the Greeks to the area the Buddha was only represented through symbols, such as a wheel, or foot prints and an empty throne, as there was a ban on the depiction on the Buddha in art. Due to the increased influence of Hellenistic culture the Buddha was eventually depicted in statues and paintings, often with the features of Greek deities or Alexander the Great.

Fine condition. Rare in this size.