Lot 56A
Near East, Gandharan Empire, ca. 1st century CE. A skillfully carved head with a lively visage comprised of expressive eyes, a naturalistic nose, and a broad mustache over a full-lipped mouth. Given the elaborate headdress, this piece probably represented an elite personage. The subject's facial planes are veristically contoured, this realistic quality complemented by details such soft 'fleshy' lips and heavy eyelids. A special example of Greco-Buddhist art that demonstrates a strong syncretism between eastern and western traditions, though the style leans slightly more toward Indian influences. Custom stand. Size: 1.75" W x 3.5" H (4.4 cm x 8.9 cm); 5.125" H (13 cm) on stand
The Gandharan Empire made itself wealthy in part by controlling lucrative trade along the mountain passes between China in the East and the Near East and Mediterranean in the West; a great deal of this wealth went into local patronage of artisans and art. In the first century CE, Buddhism became fashionable amongst Gandharan elites, and the art produced at this time depicting the Buddha are some of the most striking Buddhist images from the past. Their artistic tradition also reflects the conquest of Alexander the Great and the introduction of styles from all sides, blended into a uniquely Gandharan tradition, which this Buddha exemplifies.
Provenance: Whisnant Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA acquired over twenty years ago
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#123409
- Condition: A fragment with losses to peripheries and expected wear commensurate with age.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |