GANDHARAN SCHIST STANDING BUDDHA

Ca. 200-300 AD
A schist figure of a standing Buddha, originally depicted in the abhaya mudra, conveys a gesture of fearlessness and protection. The flowing robe adorning the Buddha envelops his body, draping gracefully with an exquisite arrangement of cascading folds. The intricate attention to detail in the robe reflects the skill and artistry of the Gandharan sculptors, capturing the beauty of fabric and texture. Standing barefoot on a plinth, the Buddha is presented with elegance and poise. The plinth itself is adorned with two four-petaled blooms, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the sculpture and symbolizing a sacred environment. Buddha's head is rounded, with the hair pulled up and gathered into a topknot. A large halo serves as a backdrop to the head, further emphasizing the figure's divine aura and enlightened nature. The facial features of the Buddha exhibit a naturalistic approach. The half-closed almond-shaped eyes impart a serene and introspective expression, while the broad nose and slightly smiling lips add a sense of gentle tranquility. The elongated earlobes signify the Buddha's renunciation of worldly attachments and his attainment of spiritual enlightenment. The representations of Buddha in Gandhara art encapsulate the synthesis of various artistic influences, combining elements from Hellenistic, Persian, and Indian traditions. This amalgamation of cultures gave rise to a unique visual language that resonated with the spiritual beliefs of the Gandharan people. For a similar, please see The British Museum, Museum number 1880.73. Cf. Sotheby's, Indian and Himalayan Art, including Masterpieces from the Nyingjei Lam Collection, New York, 21 March 2023, Lot 150. This item comes with a custom-made stand.
Size: L:340mm / W:120mm ; 3.96kg
Provenance: Private London collection; formerly in Belgium 1970s collection.
Estimate: GBP 2000 - 3000