A Rare and Exquisite Gandhara Stucco Head of Bodhisattva with Original Pigments, 3rd-5th Century AD H14 x W9.5 x D11 cm (H23.2 cm with Stand) This Gandhara stucco head of a Bodhisattva is an exceptionally rare and exquisite masterpiece, showcasing the artistic brilliance and cultural fusion of the Roman Gandhara period. Unearthed in the Gandhara region of present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, this head perfectly embodies the synthesis of Greco-Roman artistic styles with Buddhist iconography, reflecting the profound cultural exchanges along the Silk Road in the early centuries AD. Gandhara art emerged as a result of the cultural interactions facilitated by the Silk Road. Through this vital artery of trade and culture, ideas, goods, and artistic traditions flowed freely between East and West. The delicate facial features of this Bodhisattva—arched brows, a prominent nose, and a serene expression—clearly exhibit Greco-Roman influences while seamlessly incorporating the spiritual essence of Buddhist sculpture. This fusion of elements highlights the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures and religions in the Gandhara region and remains a hallmark of its artistic legacy. What makes this piece particularly remarkable is the rare preservation of its original pigments. Over time, most Gandhara stucco sculptures have lost their coloration due to burial and environmental factors. However, this Bodhisattva head retains traces of its original pigments, including red hues on the crown, eyes, and lips, as well as subtle skin tones on the face. These remnants offer invaluable insights into the vibrant polychromy that once adorned Gandhara sculptures, enhancing their lifelike quality and sacred presence. Compare a similar example of a stucco head of Bodhisattva, H. 14.6 cm, 4th-5th Century AD, in the collection of the British Museum: https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1937-0716-159 Provenance: Acquired from a private collection in 1982, Paris Condition: Overall in good condition. Some abrasion caused by age. Partial loss of the nose and crown. Overall surface is covered with soil. No restoration. Shipping worldwide by EMS, usually 7-14 days to deliver. The photo of proof of origin and certificate of authenticity will be provided via email.