Lot 48A
Central Asia, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 200 BCE to 200 CE. A beautiful schist panel carved in high relief with a scene of the seated Buddha with an attendant on either side of him. Buddha's hands are crossed on his lap and his legs are crossed as he sits atop a throne; his face is serene and on his head he has a prominent ushnisha. A long leaf/drape hangs down to touch the top of his head, and behind his head is a large halo. Although the position of the attendants to either side of the Buddha suggests that this might be a representation of the Triad, their poses - turned towards Buddha, with hands clasped - suggests they are attendants. They are dressed in finery, with well-carved, draped robes, and may have been carved to represent real people who wished to pay homage to Buddha by endowing artwork. Comes with custom stand. Size: 10" W x 9.25" H (25.4 cm x 23.5 cm); height on stand: 11.85" (30.1 cm).
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.
See a complete panel of this style and culture from Bonham's March 18, 2013 sale, which sold for $22500: http://www.bonhams.com/auctions/20903/lot/20/
Provenance: Ex-Private East Coast, USA Collection
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#120726
- Condition: Piece is a fragment, with losses as shown. Lower leg of attendant on left (facing) has been repaired. Encrustation on surface.
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