Lot 80
Originally offered at $2000...
South Asia, India, Gupta period, possibly Sarnath region, ca. 5th century CE. A striking stone Buddha head expertly modeled and delineated with a serene facial expression. Crowned by tightly coiled hair nodes rising to a rounded top bun, the tranquil visage displays heavily laden meditative eyes, a sharp nose, elongated earlobes, and gently smiling lips - clearly a countenance that could inspire hours peaceful meditation. Liberal remains of gold-hued pigment embellish the nose, lips, and ears. A rare and sublime piece of history that has survived many centuries! Size: 5.4" W x 8" H (13.7 cm x 20.3 cm); 12" H (30.5 cm) on included custom stand.
The head of the Buddha is perhaps the most significant element of the deity as it represents the immense body of knowledge and wisdom of Buddha along with the tranquil nature that emanates from its expression. A peaceful countenance with a flame Ushnisha symbolizing the wisdom and knowledge acquired after attaining enlightenment, and prominent elongated ears, a physical feature symbolic of the Buddha's time as a prince when he wore elaborate ear ornaments to demonstrate wealth and prosperity. Of course, the prince stopped wearing them when he left the palace to become an ascetic; however, his earlobes remained stretched signifying a renunciation of the material world. Furthermore, the curled, short hair of the Buddha signifies the nobility of Buddha. Beyond the multi-layered meaning embodied in the iconography of this piece, its technique and artistry is exceptional.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
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.
#174066
- Condition: Fragment of a larger piece. Chipping to nose, periphery of right ear, left cheek, and neck. Some nicks to areas, as well as abrasions to verso. Possible overpainting in areas. Nicely preserved detail and remaining lacquer. Liberal remains of pigment.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 26.5% 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 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |