Northwest Pakistan, ancient region of Gandhara, ca. 2nd to 4th century CE. A skillfully stuccoed head of Buddha, presenting a sensitively modeled visage comprised of solemn half-closed eyes of an elegant almond shape that still show traces of white and blue pigment, a long aquiline nose, and a gentle smile. The Buddha's facial planes are veristically contoured, this realistic quality complemented by details such as those soft 'fleshy' lips and heavy eyelids. Traces of white pigment also remain on the lips and ear, and black pigment remains of the curled coiffure topped by an ushnisha. This technique shows stylistic affinities with the early stucco production from Ghandaran sites, particularly Taxila. A special example of Greco-Buddhist art that demonstrates a strong syncretism between eastern and western traditions. Size: 5.875" H (14.9 cm); 8.375" H (21.3 cm) on included custom stand.

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 stylized curly Mediterranean hair and top knot that derive from the Apollo Belvedere (330 BCE), as well as the sensitive modeling of that tranquil visage displayed in this piece, for example, exhibit this classical influence.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#137819

Missing right ear. Losses to lobe and peripheries of left ear, neck, back of head, and high-pointed areas.