Head of a Bodhisattva
China (Xinjiang Autonomous Region)
Not on view
The delicate modeling of the hair and face provide a sense of the sophisticated sculptural production at Rawak. Early photographs show that this bodhisattva originally had an elaborate topknot, suggestive of the figure of the future Buddha Maitreya. This bodhisattva also had flowers in his hair, earrings, and an elaborate halo embellished with multiple Buddha images (similar to 30.32.33 and 30.32.44). The use of unfired red clay is a technical feature shared with late Afghan Buddhist imagery.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.