Large Gandharan Stucco Head of Buddha

Object Description

A finely modelled stucco statuette fragment from Gandhara, most likely depicting the head of Buddha Shakyamuni (Śākyamuni), the historical Buddha who reached enlightenment and on whose teachings Buddhism was based. Buddha’s oval face displays idealised features, with almond-shaped and heavy-lidded eyes, arched brows, a high nose-bridge, and a cupids bow mouth. He is characterised by a calm expression and an enigmatic smile, reinforcing his majesty and quiet authority. His hair rises in crescent-shaped ridges, and is surmounted by a top-knot hairstyle. This hairstyle is important as it symbolises Ushnisha as the protrusion on top of the head is said to manifest as a result of increased wisdom gained during enlightenment. Further details include an incised circular line on his neck, and some remnants of what may have been dark pigment on the surface. The statuette was likely once part of a large-scale narrative panel modelled in high relief, as evidenced by the uneven texture at the back of the head.

Height given below includes both the head and stand.

Date: Circa 2nd – 4th century AD

Object History

From the collection of a North West London gentleman, 1990s-2000s.

Object Condition

Fair condition. The facial features are clear. There is damage to the tip of the nose and ears, particularly his left ear, as well as dark marks on the surface. The neck is cut unevenly and chipped. The back of the head is rough and uneven in texture, and an adhesive is visible connecting the head to the stand. The fragment is supplied with a custom-made stand.

Object Details