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An extremely well modeled, striking, over-lifesize Ancient Gandharan stucco face fragment, dating to approximately 200-400 AD.
The head is formed of carved stucco (a form of plaster), and depicts the fragmentary head of the Buddha in exquisite style. The face is sculpted in an idealized and naturalistic way, surpassing the vast majority of contemporary Gandharan art. The Buddha is shown with serene expression, his elegant eyes with drooping lids and his full, fleshy lips deeply yet sensitively modeled. The youthful, chubby appearance of the Buddha, particularly when viewed from the side, the thick lips and unruly hair are reminiscent of 4th-3rd Century B.C. Greek sculpture, and reflect the strong Hellenistic influence on Gandharan artists.
Height of sculpture, as mounted: 14 inches.
Height of sculpture alone: 9 3/4 inches.
Condition: Fragmentary as shown, unrestored. With traces of original pigment still remaining in the right eye.
Provenance: Ex. British private collection, acquired 1980's on the London Art Market.
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