A KUSHAN MOTTLED PINK SANDSTONE PILLAR FRAGMENT, MATHURA, INDIA, 2ND/3RD CENTURY carved in relief, probably from a railing pillar, depicting the head of a salabhanjika, holding a khadga in her right hand, leafy branches behind, her hair gathered in an elaborate five-fold bun, mounted 21cm high This fragment relates to the well-known series of Kushan railing pillars from the Mathura region, examples of which can be found in several museums both in India and the West. While the majority of these celestial maidens are depicted simply stretching out or holding a mirror, examples holding a sword are more unusual. This may relate to the 'sword dance' referred to in early texts in which foreign girls would perform. See K. Codrington, 'The Art of India and Pakistan', London 1947, pl.54 for a salabhanjika holding up a similar sword in the National Museum, New Delhi. See also S. Asthana, 'Mathura Kala', New Delhi 1999, plates 103 and 105. Descriptions in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports and all lots are sold as viewed. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in good condition. Prospective bidders are recommended to request a condition report prior to bidding, wherever possible satisfying themselves in person at the gallery as to the condition of a lot.