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17

Sandstone Relief Figure of a Buddha, Gupta Period, 5th C.

Currency:EUR Category:Collectibles Start Price:7,500.00 EUR Estimated At:12,000.00 - 15,000.00 EUR
Sandstone Relief Figure of a Buddha, Gupta Period, 5th C.
Reddish sandstone
India, Sarnath, Gupta period, 5th century
Standing relief figure of a Buddha
Meditative facial expression and typically elongated earlobes
Plain undergarment, hinted at along the neckline, the waist and the hem
The upper garment hinted at though a broad fold extending from the right arm to the hem – a characteristic motif of Sarnath Gupta art
Mounted on a black metal base (later)
Height: 40 cm
Condition consistent with age
Provenance: Collection of Jack Zuberbühler, Switzerland
Object is regular taxed. Differential taxation is not possible

Gupta Art

The Gupta period in India (4th to 6th centuries) was a golden age when the arts – sculpture, painting, literature – as well as various sciences – astronomy and mathematics – flourished under royal patronage. Sarnath, in Uttar Pradesh – where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment – was one of the most important creative centers at that time. The sculptures, such as the present Buddha figure, were made from sandstone found close to Sarnath (see J. Rosenfield, 'On the dated carvings of Sarnath', Artibus Asiae, vol. 26, no. 1 (1963), pp. 10-26, figs. 1-3.) The sculptures of this period display a great level of sensitivity, with much smoother elements as compared to Gandharan sculpture for example. With forms inspired by nature, such as eyebrows reminiscent of the curved leaves of the margosa or eyes shaped like lotus petals, Gupta art is characterized by restrained forms combined with a subtle and flawless execution. It thus represents a climax in Indian art.



Compare a similar piece from the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection of Asian Art (accession no. 1979.005) at the Asian Society, New York.



Condition: The figure is in fair condition consistent with age. It measures 40 cm in height.

Provenance: Collection of Jack Zuberbühler, Switzerland
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