Circa 300-400 AD A gorgeous, schist head of an elderly male, naturalistically presented in the traditional Graeco-Buddhist style which was so popular during this time. The head isposed of a gaunt face with recessed eyes beneath heavy brows, large ears with elongated lobes, a flowing mustache above an abundant beard, and well-contoured cheeks, all set beneath a bald pate. The head's somewhat emaciated depiction suggests he is an ascetic, an individual who foregoes any form of indulgence or physical pleasure to maintain and demonstrate their religious devotion. Much Gandharan sculpture from this time period depicts the Buddha, but this example has no hallmarks suggesting that it is him or a representation of an elderly Prince Siddhartha. Size: L:270mm / W:145mm; 6.3kg (with stand) Provenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly acquired in early 2000s in Belgium; previously in 1970s European collection.