The head of Buddha is made from grey schist, a type of fine-grained sandstone that is particularly well-suited for intricate carving. The sculpture depicts the head of the Buddha, with his hair arranged in tight curls and a serene expression on his face. The detailed carving of the hair and facial features are characteristic of Gandharan art, which was heavily influenced by Hellenistic and Roman styles.
Size: Height 9.5cm (14.5cm with stand), width 7cm, length 6cm
Object history: UK art market, previously acquired by an English gentleman in Pakistan in the 1960s.