GANDHARAN SCHIST HEAD OF A BODHISATTVA
Ca. 100-300 AD. The head is finely shaped, the nose in aquiline, an elaborate coiffure that radiates from the top of the head and is fashioned in a loosely parted topknot. The hair is stylised in such a way as to accentuate his princely status. The gemstone adornment that crowns the centre of the diadem symbolises the Bodhisattva's earthly return in the service of the enlightenment of all sentient beings. The heavy-lidded eyes similarly convey the contemplative serenity one associates with Buddhist imagery, while a narrow moustache grows outward from above the subtly curved upper lip just above a handsomely shaped chin. The forehead is centred by a raised urna. Size: L:390mm / W:230mm; 10kg Provenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly acquired in early 2000s in France; previously in 1970s European collection.

Estimate: GBP 3000 - 6000