
Schist
This panel fragment was excavated in 1999 at the site of Zar Dheri Temple. The presence of tenons on the outer periphery suggests that it originally formed a larger panel in a temple or pagoda. A curving garlanded border runs into a repetitive row of vases carved at the bottom. Many of the figures are bearded and have their right shoulder bared, suggesting that they are of the brahmin caste. Some have shoulder-length hair, others have topknots or wear a turban. Many hold vessels in their hands and raise their arms in acclamation as if they have come to make offerings.
For more details, go to the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts: Sculpture St-Z, page 1436.