Central Asia, Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 4th to 5th century CE. A sensitively rendered stucco head of a child, perhaps a young prince, finely modeled in the traditional Greco-Buddhist tradition characteristic of Gandharan artistry. The visage is comprised of large, wide open eyes with 'fleshy' lids, a nicely defined browline leading to a perky nose, slightly parted smiling lips, and full apple cheeks - topped by a beautifully styled coiffure with a curls arranged in a somewhat bow-like form above the forehead, rolled wavy tendrils to each side of the face, and a fancy pony tail adorned by multiple ornaments in back. Size: 6" L x 4.875" W x 5.75" H (15.2 cm x 12.4 cm x 14.6 cm)
Gandharans are famous for schist and stucco carvings, with stucco replacing schist as the dominant sculptural material around the 3rd century CE. Vast monastic institutions like those at Takht-i-Bahi, Sahri-Bahlol, Jamal Garhi, Ranigat, and Thareli were decorated by skilled artisans with stucco representations of important figures, religious scenes, and artistic dedications. Stucco allowed artists more freedom in portraying lifelike features, as shown in this example. During this time, Gandhara was exceptionally wealthy, profiting from trade along the Silk Road. So patrons had resources to spend on the arts, resulting in a flowering of stucco artwork.
Lucite stand in photos not included.
Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired before 2000
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#159750
Condition
A fragment of a larger figure. Chips and losses to neckline, coiffure, tip of nose, ears, eyelids, and other high-pointed areas. Light encrustations, surface wear, and softening to some finer details. Nice earthen deposits throughout, and traces of original pigment.