Ancient Gandharan Schist Parinirvana Relief, 2nd–4th Century Ad

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Description

An evocative ancient Gandharan Buddhist gray schist relief depicting the Parinirvana, or death of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, dating to … Read more An evocative ancient Gandharan Buddhist gray schist relief depicting the Parinirvana, or death of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, dating to approximately the 2nd–4th century A.D.
Carved in high relief, the fragment presents the Buddha reclining upon an elevated funerary couch, his elongated figure extending horizontally across the composition. He is surrounded by attendant and mourning figures, including smaller figures positioned beneath the couch, an attendant at its foot, and additional partially preserved figures behind and beside the Buddha. The scene is framed by architectural elements characteristic of Gandharan narrative relief sculpture.
The subject represents the Parinirvana, the Buddha's final passing and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Presented on a custom clear Lucite display stand, the ancient fragment takes on a highly sculptural presence while remaining fully visible from both the carved front and unfinished reverse.
Dimensions Including Lucite Stand: 7"Height x 8.5"Width x 3.75"Depth
Details
* Culture: Gandharan
* Subject: The Death of the Buddha / Parinirvana
* Date: Circa 2nd–4th Century A.D.
* Material: Carved gray schist
* Country: Pakistan, ancient region of Gandhara
* Period: Kushan / Gandharan Buddhist period
* Display: Custom Lucite stand See less