Mathura: Standing Buddha

INDIA, Uttar Pradesh, Mathura

Discovered at Jamalpur, Mathura, the statue is carved in Mathura style. Its slender frame replaces the more robust figure produced during the Kushan period (circa 1st–3rd century). The gentler, more rounded contours are a Gupta trait. The nimbus is also larger in size but similar to the Kushan design. The main difference is the lotus behind the head, beyond which are differently sized bands of floral and foliate patterns, succeeded by the familiar beaded rim and scalloped edge.
The Buddha has a high usnisa covered in neatly aligned curls; the eyes are cast down, the nose is broad and the lower lip thick. Both shoulders are covered by a diaphanous robe. The material clings to the body and has a continuous pattern of folds rippling its length.