GANDHARA, 2ND/3RD CENTURY

This magnificent Buddha sits regally, the face with a benign expression and exquisitely delineated features. The folds of the robe are skillfully carved with curved, crisp lines that reveal the contours of the body, emphasizing the fullness of the chest and gentle slope of the shoulders. The throne is also far more elaborate than a simple seat- the Buddha sits on a fine cushion incised with an undulating line, placed over a throne supported on either side by columns with stylized lion's claws. The scene on the base is framed by soft drapery. For another example bearing similar stylistic treatment of the Buddha's drapery and the throne in particular, see the Seated Buddha in W. Zwalf, A Catalogue of the Gandhara Sculpture at the British Museum, 1996, cat. no.26.