GANDHARAN SCHIST OVER THE LIFESIZE HEAD OF BUDDHA

Ca. 100-200 AD. A schist stone, over the lifesize head of Buddha with naturalistic features of the head including deep-set almond-shaped half-closed eyes, a broad nose, thin arched eyebrows, small lips, round cheeks and chin, and elongated earlobes. The head is adorned with an urna, a symbol of wisdom, situated between the eyebrows. The wavy hair is arranged in a topknot (Ushnisha), a characteristic feature of Buddha images symbolizing his enlightenment and expanded consciousness. The sculptor has masterfully portrayed the serene and introspective expression of the Buddha, with a slight smile playing on the lips. The heavy-lidded elongated eyes, centered by the raised urna, create a sense of peacefulness and inner calm. The hair is arranged in wavy locks over the Ushnisha, which is prominent and well-defined, adding a sense of height and regality to the sculpture. For a similar, see The Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design, 81.211. Size: L:355mm / W:215mm ; 22.14kg Provenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly acquired in early 2000s in Belgium; previously in 1970s European collection.