Budha, Gandhara, Antique, 1st Century, Schist Stone

Gandharan School, circa 1st–3rd Century AD

Head of the Buddha

Grey schist, mounted on a modern display base

This finely carved grey schist head represents the Buddha in the classical Gandharan Greco-Buddhist tradition, produced in the ancient region of Gandhara, encompassing parts of present-day Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan along the historic Indus cultural corridor.

The face is sensitively modelled with almond-shaped half-closed eyes, an aquiline nose, and a gentle, contemplative smile, expressing the calm spiritual ideal associated with early Buddhist imagery. The hair is arranged in tightly curled locks forming the uṣṇīṣa, the cranial protuberance symbolising enlightenment.

The sculptural style demonstrates the well-documented fusion of Hellenistic and South Asian artistic traditions, a hallmark of Gandharan workshops influenced by Greek naturalism following Alexander’s eastern campaigns.

Mounted on a discreet modern display stand, the sculpture presents as an elegant and contemplative object suitable for serious collectors of early Buddhist or classical Central Asian art.

Size: Height with Base 43 cm

Height of the stone head: 33 x 22 cm

Most objects sold in our gallery are antiques, vintage or used; therefore, they will show signs of being antique, vintage or used. There may be signs of scratches, discolouration, chips, cracks, wear and tear, unknown manufacturers and/or patterns. Please see the photographs as they form part of the description.  Overseas buyers in some countries may be required to pay any import duties, taxes, or fees. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both UK and international shipping. Overseas buyers, please get in touch for courier charges.