Padmapani Bodhisattva Under Flower Canopy
Ancient India, Gandhara Region
Kushan Period, 2nd – 3rd century
Schist
Dimensions: 27 ½ x 12 inches (69.9 x 30.5 cm)

Seated in dhyanamudra on a beautifully carved lotus pedestal underneath an intricate flower canopy, Padmapani Bodhisattva holds a pendant lotus in his clasped hands. The bodhisattva is dressed in the contemporary attire and adornments of Kushan royalty. The dress is composed of a lower garment that is supported by a twisted cord around the waist, and a long scarf wrapped around and under the left arm at the shoulder. Although based loosely on Hellenistic prototypes, the garment folds follow a more linear, stylized format typical of Gandharan art. The bodhisattva is ornamented with a short wide torque (kanthi) and a long necklace with makaramukha terminals holding a bead between them, as well as intricately carved bangles, an armband, and earrings. The hair is gathered underneath an elegant turban, and is decorated with a wide retaining band and cresting plume. Two adoring figures kneel before the bodhisattva at either side of the pedestal. A frieze runs along the base of the sculpture that shows a bodhisattva holding a lotus with legs crossed and attendants on either side.

The mature figural style of Gandharan statuary is characterized in this particular example by an ovalesque head with smooth transitions of the planes integrating the facial features. The broad forehead is flat over low curving edges for eyebrows. The eye is somewhat narrow and is marked by a heavier upper lid. The nose is delicate and well carved. The full chin is rounded. The volumes of the body are sensual and full, and do not obtrude under the diaphanous drapery, which has vigorous and prominent folds. The torso is modeled around the chest and swells subtly at the navel.