2nd-4th century AD. A carved schist statue of Buddha on a dais; the figure standing in a loosely draped robe to below the knees with the bare feet resting on the rectangular plinth, swags to the neck and hair carefully carved with a chignon above, nimbus to the rear of the head, left hand holding a gathered fold of the cloth garment; tiered plinth with frieze of four figures flanking a vessel, columns to the corners; mounted on a custom-made stand. 32.7 kg, 89cm (35"). Property of a London gentleman; previously with central London gallery; imported from the USA in the early 1970s; formerly with Mahboubian Gallery, New York since the late 1960s; accompanied by copies of an early 1970s black and white photograph. The Gandharan tradition of portraying Buddha as a youthful male developed during the 1st century AD and lasted until at least the 7th century. It drew on the local artistic conventions of the Swat valley, but was heavily influenced by classical Graeco-Roman ideas. During the reign of the Indian emperor Ashoka (3rd century BC), Gandhara was the source of intensive Buddhist missionary activity. Alongside some influential depictions of Buddhist legends and scenes from the life of Buddha, the Gandharan school of art incorporated a range motifs and techniques from Roman art, including vine scrolls, cherubs bearing garlands, tritons, and centaurs. The art flourished during the Kushan dynasty's rule (1st-4th century AD"). The dynasty relied on trade with the Mediterranean world for its wealth, and its coins and other artistic output depict a unique mix of Asian and European themes. Very fine condition.