Buddha Head Gray Schist Ancient Region of Gandhara, Kushan Period

The oval face with a serene, meditative expression, the almond-shaped, half-open eyes framed by gently curving eyebrows, the lips are sensuous and delicate, the hair in zig zag waves undulating back from the forehead and rising to form an usnisha, the earlobes extended, though broken, and the urna denoted by a large circular incision was probably once inlaid with a precious stone.

European Private Collection, acquired 1970's

Very good condition. A slightly uneven break at the neck. The surface has sustained some chips and scratches, notably on the front curls of the usnisha, visible in the photograph. The right earlobe is chipped along its outer edge and the tip of the earlobe broken, the left earlobe is chipped along its bottom edge and the tip is missing. A hairline crack extends from the left side of the head through the left eye and half way down the left cheek, just visible on the photograph. Some restoration to the nose.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Originally part of a full image of the Buddha this head would have been gently tilted forwards and looking downwards. The face is that of a young, handsome prince indicating the Buddha early in his ministry having left behind his privileged life as Prince Siddhartha. The artist has captured exquisite psychical beauty coupled with a deep spirituality, the face masterfully rendered to attract the worshipper to him but then the tranquil expression encouraging spiritual contemplation. Compare the hair arrangement to a Buddha head published in Stanislav J. Czuma, Kushan Sculpture: Images from Early India, The Cleveland Museum of Art, 1985, p. 200, fig. 110.