Kushan period, 2nd-3rd century. Well carved, the ovoid face with almond-shaped eyes below elegantly arched brows centered by a gently raised circular urna, above full bow-shaped lips forming a subtle smile, flanked by long pendulous earlobes, the wavy hair pile up into a high topknot secured by a thin plain band.

Provenance: From the private collection of Olivier Marechal, Belgium, acquired before 2007 in Rajasthan, India. Olivier Marechal (b. 1973) is a noted Belgian collector and dealer specializing in the arts of India, Vietnam, and Thailand. He began his career in the mid-1990s, learning from his father who helped him with his first purchases. He later managed Surya Gallery in Brussels, Belgium.
Condition: Good condition, commensurate with age. Wear, losses, minor nicks, scratches, signs of weathering and erosion, old repairs, minor touchups, all as expected.

Weight: 8,059 g (incl. stand)
Dimensions: Height 30 cm (excl. stand), 42 cm (incl. stand)

Mounted on an associated modern stand. (2)

Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Christie' New York, 30 March 2006, lot 35
Price: USD 33,600 or approx. EUR 48,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A gray schist head of Buddha, Gandhara, 2nd/3rd century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related modeling and manner of carving with similar facial features. Note the similar size (23 cm).