Buddha Gray Schist Ancient Region of Gandhara, Kushan Period

The Estate of Dr. Dallas Bache Pratt
Sothebys, New York, November 30, 1994, lot 56

The stone exfoliated away from a large area in the front, from the right wrist, just the thumb remaining, and left elbow to the base, with a square-shaped hole at the hand position. The halo is unevenly broken diagonally from the top to the right shoulder and two small holes are bored through it, at the apex is the remains of the insertion of a stupa or chakra, a small, hole bored through the stone beneath it. The nose is chipped along its ridge and tip and the edges of the earlobes are chipped. On the surface are large white areas of soil encrustation and gesso. No restoration.
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.