A FINELY CARVED STONE FIGURE OF A STANDING BUDDHIST DEITY

Finely carved in the round from dark basalt, the figure stands in a graceful frontal pose with a slender, elongated body and gently rounded shoulders. The serene oval face is delicately modelled with softly arched brows, half-closed almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose, and full lips forming a subtle, contemplative smile. Elongated earlobes frame the face beneath an elaborate foliate crown composed of pointed leaf-shaped projections enriched with floral ornament, while stylized locks of hair are rendered in finely incised striations. The figure is clad in a close-fitting robe that falls in long, crisp vertical pleats to the feet, with a smooth mantle draped over the shoulders. Multiple strands of finely carved beaded necklaces descend in elegant festoons across the chest and are gathered in the surviving right hand, complemented by a beaded collar and armlets that emphasize the figure's princely elegance. The left arm is missing below the shoulder, while the remaining right arm hangs naturally at the side, gently supporting the looping strands of jewelry. The hard, fine-grained basalt has been skillfully worked to achieve a remarkable degree of refinement, with sharply defined details contrasting against smoothly finished surfaces. Substantial traces of gilding remain across the face, chest, necklaces, and garments, providing a striking contrast with the deep charcoal-grey stone. The reverse is more simply carved, with softly incised folds continuing across the drapery, preserving the sculpture's harmonious proportions and refined silhouette. The sculpture is presented on a custom metal stand, allowing full appreciation of its elegant profile and balanced composition. H 54 cm

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