Untitled

Unknown

ca. 4th–5th century · Stucco · Asian Art

The lunette embellished the high base of a Buddhist stupa (relic mound) and would have been viewed from below during ritual circumnambulation. Shakyamuni is shown as a bodhisattva wearing the jeweled turban and textiles of a prince. The naturalistic anatomy and the complex classical treatment of interacting devotees seem remarkable given that the relief was sculpted about the fifth century—long after classical traditions in the West had declined.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 4th–5th century

Medium

Stucco

Culture

Afghanistan (Hadda)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Walter Burke Gift, and Anonymous Gift, Rogers Fund, and Gift of George D. Pratt, by exchange, 2005