MAGNIFICENT STUCCO BUDDHA HEAD
Circa 3-4th Century AD
Code: 0537 - Price POA

A rare and magnificent life size museum quality 3rd-4th century Gandharan Stucco Head of Buddha Sakyamuni. From Hadda in the Jalalabad district, Afghanistan where Buddhists were especially active from the reign of Kanishka. This head would have been part of a significant image. Buddhas of this size would have been the inspiration for the colossal images that are a striking feature of early Buddhist cave temples along the ancient silk road into China.
Sadly due to the Taliban interpretation of the Koran virtually nothing remains of the once mighty Gandharan civilisations within Afghanistan's boarders.
This well proportioned head is finely modeled with a meditive expression, arched eyebrows above heavy lidded eyes, aquiline nose and gently smiling lips. An ancient loss has resulted in the missing right ear, left ear has been professionally restored using original piece. Very small traces of original coloured pigment remaining in places. Professional mounted on custom made removable black metal welded stand.
The piece is in excellent condition.
Height including stand 12.5" high (32cm).
Measurements not including stand: 10" (25.5cm) tall.
Weight: 3.6 kg including stand.