GANDHARA, 2ND/3RD CENTURY

The representation of the fasting Prince Siddhartha, also referred to as "Fasting Buddha," is considered one of the most iconic of all of Gandharan Buddhist images. It depicts a nearly skeletal Siddhartha, who has become emaciated during his meditation. Driven by superhuman will, he is devoted to his quest for release from the endless cycle of suffering. Gandharan artists, beyond capturing the idealized physical beauty of the enlightened Buddha, were equally capable of dramatizing a subject. The deeply sunken eyeballs, taut skin, wasted muscles and prominent bones, all deliberately stylized, speak eloquently of his deprivations, demonstrating his capacity to exceed human limitations in his quest for spiritual transcendence.