Bimaran Stupa 2: Reliquary

AFGHANISTAN, Nangarhar

This gold reliquary was recovered from Bimaran Stupa 2. It is dated to the late 1st century, but some archaeologists have suggested that it may be from an earlier period.
The repoussé reliquary is made of pure gold inlaid with garnets. It is cylindrical and tapers slightly towards the rim. On the surface, there are eight pointed niches supported by columns. In between the niches, there are images of eagles, and above and below are garnets interlaced with lotus patterns.
There are two images of standing Buddhas, each with a topknot and a round face with a mustache. The Buddha performs the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra with his right hand, and holds his left at his waist. Appearing to be walking, he wears a round-collar robe. To each Buddha’s right, there is an image of Sakra wearing a turban with a nimbus and a robe. To the left of each Buddha the bearded figure of Brahma stands in profile with a nimbus behind. He holds a vessel in his left hand, and raises his right. The remaining two figures are likely either Bodhisattvas, Maitreya, or devotees.
Inscriptions found on the reliquary’s container indicate that it once held relics of the Buddha. However, the lid and relics are missing, leaving only some tiny pearls, precious stones, and four coins. This reliquary is a fine example of Gandharan metalwork and provides valuable information on the development of Buddhist iconography.