Central Asia, India, ca. 11th century CE. A very large, finely carved sandstone head of Buddha or Jain Tirthankara presenting a tranquil expression comprised of narrow, elongated eyes with incised irises and generous upper lids, wide eye beds, curvilinear brows, a straight nose, full lips set in a gentle smile, and smooth facial contours. He wears a top-knotted coiffure with meticulously delineated tight curls covering his head. In Jainism, a Tirthankara is a human who assists others to attain enlightenment as an Arihant by terminating their karmas - a role model for all who seek spiritual guidance. Size: 7.75" W x 11.25" H (19.7 cm x 28.6 cm); 13.375" H (34 cm) on included custom stand.

Buddhism and Jainism represent two ancient Indian religions with Mahavira and Gautama Buddha believed to be contemporaries living in the 5th century BCE, and they share certain principles and elements. Jains believe their religion included 24 Tirthankaras - with the last two being Parshvanatha and Mahavira who are generally regarded as historical individuals. The 23rd Tirthankara pre-dates the Buddha and the Mahavira by approximately 250 years. Buddhists believe that the historical Buddha (Gautama Siddhartha) rediscovered the long forgotten dharma (the teachings of the religion describing the cosmic order) around the 5th century BCE, and commenced to teach it again. Interestingly, there were previous Buddhas in Buddhism as well - 27 are described in the Buddhavamsa, the 14th book of the Khuddaka Nikaya. Furthermore, Buddhists believe that Gautama Buddha had previous births; these are described in the Jataka Tales.

Provenance: private Andrade collection New York, New York, USA acquired 1960's from Knoedler Gallery

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#132028

In general, there is some fragmentation along the fine points - losses to the nose, lips, chin, ears, hairline, neckline, coiffure. Expected surface wear commensurate with age showing areas of earthen encrustation and rootmarks.