Bidspirit auction | GANDHARAN STONE PANEL DEPICTING THE

GANDHARAN STONE PANEL DEPICTING THE OFFERING OF THE FOUR BOWLS TO BUDDHA - Ca. AD 200 - 300. A schist stone panel depicting Buddha seated upon a pedestal, backed with a halo, his right hand raised and his left holding an alms bowl. He is flanked by attendants presenting offerings, with one kneeling in reverence at the base of the pedestal. To either side stand additional donors and figures, some carrying vessels, forming a symmetrical and devotional composition. The scene represents the episode in which the Four Lokap?las (Guardians of the Directions) offered four alms bowls to the newly enlightened Buddha. Accepting their gift, the Buddha magically fused the vessels into a single bowl, symbolising the unity of the Dharma.For similar see: H. Ingholt, Gandharan Art in Pakistan, New York, 1957, pl. XX 1. and nos 67-69, p. 67f; Christie's, New York, March 21, 2008, Lot 571.Size: 345mm x 240mm; Weight: 11kgProvenance: From a professional UK collection of Asian and Himalayan art; previously with a London gallery, ex. A.H. collection; formerly acquired in France between 1980 and 2005.This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.