A GREY SCHIST ANTEFIX OF A SCENE OF BUDDHA AND BODHISATTVAS ANCIENT REGION OF GANDHARA, KUSHAN PERIOD, 2ND/3RD CENTURY |

a three-tiered antefix depicting three scenes, the top showing the Buddha seated in a frontal pose in dhyanasana on a stone plinth surrounded by kneeling figures in three-quarter pose with hands in anjali, the middle tier identical to that of the first with the Buddha's right hand extended in the abhaya gesture, the bottom tier depicting the Bodhisattva in tribhanga with draping robes, the scenes separated by bands of a pointed leaf pattern, all enclosed within an arched border with undulating stalks and open lotus roundel designs, with two seated bodhisattvas on either side and two worshiping figures positioned below

Acquired 2018.
Private Collection from the Estate of Wroughton House, Swindon, UK Circa 1960's.

Overall fair condition for an item of this age and type. With heavy erosion to the surface details most notable in the right side of the antefix where the kneeling figure in the bottom right corner and seated frontal figure are and along the rosette detailing which has mostly worn away. Central portion of the antefix where figurative groupings are still retain intact features aside from facial details. Larger crack on the outer rim of upper most band on center right running vertically from top to bottom. A larger more significant crack running from the architectural frame of second tier of figures diagonally up through the center left side and splitting into two cracks along the outer most rim.
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.

Compare to similar iconography within an antefix to a relief from Loriyan Tangai depicting the Buddha teaching the Nagas, see A. Grünwedel, trans. A. Gibson; Buddhist Art in India, 1901, p. 106. fig. 58.