GANDHARA, 2ND/3RD CENTURY

This exceptionally well-carved figure beautifully evokes the peace in which Buddha immersed himself during his meditation. Seated on the kusha grass with his hands gently placed in his lap, the folds of the drapery so realistically model the body that the torso seems imbued with breath, as if the figure will gently exhale in the next moment. The face conveys this sense of inner quietude to the viewer. While the sculptor also carved the hair in naturalistic locks, he allowed himself some artistic flourish, so that the curls rise over the ushnisha in overlapping arcs, as if to mimic lotus petals. Overall this figure is a powerful and masterful depiction of the meditating Buddha.