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Pair Gandharan Stucco Heads of Donors, 3rd-5th Century, Gandhara

About the Item

A charming pair of Gandharan molded stucco heads of donors, ancient region of Gandhara (modern day Pakistan / Afghanistan), probably Taxila, circa 3rd-5th century. The two heads most likely represent donors. Donors to temples would often have their images enshrined in the artworks of temple walls in thanks for their support. One head portrays a youthful figure with a plump, smiling face, and full head of hair arranged in fat curls and secured by a headband. The androgynous figure looks forwards and slightly up, the head slightly tilted. The other head portrays a slightly older male figure, possibly a noble, or even a bodhisattva. The figure with a more somber expression, looking downwards, and wearing a beautifully wrapped turban upon his head. Both heads are mounted on custom black painted wood and metal stands. Provenance: Carl O. Winberg (1917 – 1999), collected in Pakistan before 1960. Mr. Winberg was a career State Department foreign service officer. He served in India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, amongst others, from the 1940’s until his retirement in 1977.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11 in (27.94 cm)Width: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)Depth: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Style:
    Hellenistic (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    3rd-5th Century
  • Condition:
    Additions or alterations made to the original: Mounted on a modern custom black painted wood and metal stand. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading. In good antique condition, with wear and slight losses as expected. Remnants of pigments. Mounted on modern stands.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU894732379412
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