Shown here standing in the fearlessness gesture (typical of many representations of a Bodhisattva or Buddha, one hand raised with palm faced outward), this Bodhisattva shows all the characteristics of Gandhara art, commonly known as "Greco-Buddhist art"; Gandharan sculptors were inspired by the Hellenistic canon for these early Buddhist representations which can be seen from the loosely fitted, trailing drapes of his traditional dhoti which he wears. His naked torso is covered with jewels; his dress mixes Indian influences, Scythian, Greco-Roman and Iranian. The base is also decorated with a Buddhist scene depicting the adoration of the Bodhisattva. This piece may represent the future Buddha before his renunciation to the world or the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara.

The sculpture is a bluish-grey, executed in high relief. It originates from the Mekhasanda monastery located on Mount Mahaban. This work reflects the diverse influences that characterise Indian art at the time of the Kushan dynasty whose kingdom stretched from Northern India to Afghanistan. Buddism was widely practiced there and the 2nd and 3rd centuries marked its peak; it was in this time that the first human representation of the Buddha was created as it previously only appeared as symbols.

This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks and landmarks from across the globe for the public to access for free. Scan the World is an open source, community effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help.

Scanned : Photogrammetry (Processed using Agisoft PhotoScan)