Important Notice

Mauryan Dynasty
3rd-2nd Century BC
Terracotta
Height: 2.5 in (6.5 cm)
Width: 2 in (5 cm)
Depth: 1.5 in (3.5 cm)

This sculpture is mounted on a detachable wooden base measuring 0.5 x 2 x 1.5 in (1 x 5 x 4 cm)

NON-EXPORTABLE REGISTERED ANTIQUITY

PROVENANCE
Formerly in the Collection of Late Gopi Krishna Kanoria, Patna

The Mauryan period preceded the rise of the Shunga dynasty, and terracottas from this age are exceptionally rare. While previous Saffronart auctions have presented terracottas from a range of regions and historical phases, this example is among the earliest. Mauryan terracottas are marked by distinctive stylistic traits, several of which are evident here. The circular discs around the head form an elaborate ceremonial headdress. In fuller figures, such elements often extend to fill the space around both ears. Some scholars have also interpreted these forms as symbolic proto-halos that were used prior to the development of the fully circular nimbus. Another characteristic feature is the distinct greyish tonality of the surface, produced by the specific firing techniques used for the clay, which can also at times result in a partially glazed appearance, as seen in this sculpture.

Despite the fragility of the medium, the head is remarkably well-preserved, retaining clarity of form and intensity of expression. It is fitting that this work once formed part of the collection of Gopi Krishna Kanoria, who resided in Patna, once the ancient city of Pataliputra, the administrative capital of the Mauryan Empire.

Mauryan Dynasty
3rd-2nd Century BC
Terracotta
Height: 2.5 in (6.5 cm)
Width: 2 in (5 cm)
Depth: 1.5 in (3.5 cm)

This sculpture is mounted on a detachable wooden base measuring 0.5 x 2 x 1.5 in (1 x 5 x 4 cm)

NON-EXPORTABLE REGISTERED ANTIQUITY

PROVENANCE
Formerly in the Collection of Late Gopi Krishna Kanoria, Patna

The Mauryan period preceded the rise of the Shunga dynasty, and terracottas from this age are exceptionally rare. While previous Saffronart auctions have presented terracottas from a range of regions and historical phases, this example is among the earliest. Mauryan terracottas are marked by distinctive stylistic traits, several of which are evident here. The circular discs around the head form an elaborate ceremonial headdress. In fuller figures, such elements often extend to fill the space around both ears. Some scholars have also interpreted these forms as symbolic proto-halos that were used prior to the development of the fully circular nimbus. Another characteristic feature is the distinct greyish tonality of the surface, produced by the specific firing techniques used for the clay, which can also at times result in a partially glazed appearance, as seen in this sculpture.

Despite the fragility of the medium, the head is remarkably well-preserved, retaining clarity of form and intensity of expression. It is fitting that this work once formed part of the collection of Gopi Krishna Kanoria, who resided in Patna, once the ancient city of Pataliputra, the administrative capital of the Mauryan Empire.