Afghanistan Kushan Empire Stone Head

Central Asia, modern day Afghanistan, Kushan Empire, ca. 20 to 280 CE. A striking carved stone head in the distinctive style of this empire that thrived in the heart of central Asia, taking advantage of the rich cultural milieu of the Silk Road. The head features huge, ovoid eyes with drilled pupils, a lifelike nose and mouth, and a tall, curved headdress. The real skill of the carving comes through in looking at the tiny, perfect curls of the hair visible on the back of the head and neck. The headdress also features an ornate headband. The stone used for the sculpture is a beautiful creamy white with very thin, occasional black and grey bands. Size: 2.45" W x 3.85" H (6.2 cm x 9.8 cm)

Who does this head represent? The headdress resembles that worn by the Kushan king Vima Kadphises on his gold coins, but the lack of a beard suggests either a young man or a woman. Whoever it was, this is a fascinating portrait.

Provenance: private California, USA collection, by descent, moved from Germany in 1997, originally collected in the 1970s in Hamburg, Germany

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#156058
Condition Report: Repaired from two pieces, with some small losses to base of neck and along repair line on back of head as well as a small loss from the upper back of the head. The face and front of the head are in excellent condition as is much of the hair, with light deposits and well preserved details and form.