Small Head of a Bodhisattva

Pakistan, Ancient region of Gandhara 

2nd-3^thcentury, Gandhara period

Schist

H12cm

Provenance: Important South German private collection since the 1950s

Mounted on a modern black metal pedestal

Carved in fine grey schist, this refined head of a Bodhisattva embodies the characteristic elegance of Gandharan sculpture with perfectly balanced proportions.

The gentle face, with half-closed almond-shaped eyes and soft curved lips conveys spiritual introspection. A prominent urna or third eye adorns the forehead, a lotus-shaped medallion is set in the hair to symbolize purity. This diadem distinguishes the figure from representations of the Buddha, who is typically shown without ornamentation.

The hair is arranged in thick wavy locks, gathered into a topknot and secured by a laurel-like crown, reflecting the fusion of Hellenistic and Buddhist iconographic elements. 

This head shows the influence of Greek ideals of beauty, which were blended with Indian spiritual concepts during the Kushan empire.