Bodhisattva Gray Schist Ancient Region of Gandhara, Kushan Period

The bodhisattva, standing with left knee bent, his hips slightly swaying to the right, the muscular torso adorned with a cord positioned diagonally holding amulet boxes, a jeweled collar over which hangs a heavy multi-strand necklace with matching large drop earrings. His monastic robes fall in thick drapes, the uttariya covering the left shoulder and upper arm like a sleeve through which the outline of the basuband can be seen. His right hand, now missing, would probably have formed abhayamudra and the lowered left hand holds a garland. He wears a turban decorated with jewels, with a central crest containing a granulated, pear-shaped ornament.

Aquired 1970

The face from the back of the head before the aureole has been broken off and visibly re-attached. Chips to the left eyelid, bridge of the nose, the side ties on the turban and the earrings. The thumb on the left hand is broken and the front of the right arm has exfoliated away. The sculpture is broken off at the ankles. The surface of the stone is smooth with evidence of original polish and has remains of gesso and paint in places. Otherwise good overall condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Compare to figures published in Harold Ingholt, Gandharan Art in Pakistan, Pantheon Books, 1957, figs. 313 – 317.