A gray schist relief with the birth of Buddha

GANDHARA, 2ND/3RD CENTURY

Details

A gray schist relief with the birth of Buddha
Gandhara, 2nd/3rd century
Finely carved depicting Queen Maya grasping the branches of a sal tree at center, comforted by her sister Prajapati at her left, the god Indra at her right receiving the newborn Siddhartha emerging from Maya's side, the child shown again taking his first steps, with further attendants to each side and above
13½ x 20½ in. (34.3 x 52.1 cm.)

Provenance

Private collection, Japan, by 1980

Brought to you by

Anita Mehta

Check the condition report or get in touch for additional information about this

amehta@christies.com 212-636-2190

If you wish to view the condition report of this lot, please sign in to your account.

View condition report

Lot Essay

In the birth scene, Maya grasps the branches of the sal tree with one hand and has her other arm around her sister Mahaprajapati as Siddhartha emerges from her side. The god Indra holds out fresh linens to catch and swaddle the newborn. Further attendants are shown on either side and devotees with folded hands above.

More from Indian and Southeast Asian Art

View All