Gupta Dynasty
Uttar Pradesh, 5th Century
Terracotta
Height: 4 in (10 cm)
Width: 2.25 in (5.5 cm)
Depth: 2.25 in (6 cm)

This sculpture is attached to a wooden base measuring 3 x 2.25 x 1.75 in (7.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 cm)

NON-EXPORTABLE REGISTERED ANTIQUITY

PROVENANCE
Formerly in an English Collection
Private Collection, India

It was during the Gupta period that terracotta attained a new level of refinement as a sculptural medium. The aesthetic sophistication of the empire’s stone imagery found a parallel expression in clay. While traces of Kushan-era rusticity persisted, they were tempered with elements of Gupta finesse. The clay itself was different with a deep reddish hue. This finely modelled head has arched brows, almond-shaped eyes with deeply set pupils, while full lips curve gently into the faint smile so often associated with Gupta stone sculpture. Within the broader field of terracottas, Gupta heads and figurines were among the first to gain recognition within mainstream sculpture collecting. The present example not only embodies the characteristic features of the period but is also well-preserved. Gupta heads in stone have long been regarded as a pinnacle of sculptural collecting, frequently commanding notable auction results.

Gupta Dynasty
Uttar Pradesh, 5th Century
Terracotta
Height: 4 in (10 cm)
Width: 2.25 in (5.5 cm)
Depth: 2.25 in (6 cm)

This sculpture is attached to a wooden base measuring 3 x 2.25 x 1.75 in (7.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 cm)

NON-EXPORTABLE REGISTERED ANTIQUITY

PROVENANCE
Formerly in an English Collection
Private Collection, India

It was during the Gupta period that terracotta attained a new level of refinement as a sculptural medium. The aesthetic sophistication of the empire’s stone imagery found a parallel expression in clay. While traces of Kushan-era rusticity persisted, they were tempered with elements of Gupta finesse. The clay itself was different with a deep reddish hue. This finely modelled head has arched brows, almond-shaped eyes with deeply set pupils, while full lips curve gently into the faint smile so often associated with Gupta stone sculpture. Within the broader field of terracottas, Gupta heads and figurines were among the first to gain recognition within mainstream sculpture collecting. The present example not only embodies the characteristic features of the period but is also well-preserved. Gupta heads in stone have long been regarded as a pinnacle of sculptural collecting, frequently commanding notable auction results.