A gray schist figure of Buddha

GANDHARA, 2ND/3RD CENTURY

Details

A gray schist figure of Buddha
Gandhara, 2nd/3rd century
Standing with flames issuing from his shoulders and water from the soles of his feet, dressed in a full-length sanghati, the folds elegantly draped over the form of the body, the face with heavy-lidded eyes centered by a raised urna, the hair in wavy locks pulled over the ushnisha, with a pair of kneeling devotees at an altar below
21 in. (53.3 cm.) high

Provenance

Private Collection, Japan, 1985

Lot Essay

The representation of Buddha with flames rising from his shoulders refers to Sravasti, where Buddha performed eight miracles to demonstrate his superiority over the Kasyapas. During the dramatic first miracle, flames issued from his shoulders and water streamed from his feet. This is a very rare and well-executed example, with the area between the foot and water deeply undercut.

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