Collection
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Title
- Bust of a women at a balcony
- Place of origin
-
Mathura →
Uttar Pradesh →
India
- Cultural origin
- Mathuran style
- Period
- Kushan period mid 1st century - early 5th century → India
- Year
- 1st century-2nd century
- Media category
- Sculpture
- Materials used
- mottled red sandstone
- Dimensions
-
14.3 x 15.2 x 6.5cm
- Signature & date
- Not signed. Not dated.
- Credit
- D G Wilson Bequest Fund 2000
- Accession number
- 11.2000
- Location
- Not on display
- Further information
This fragment is a lovely example of the distinctive Mathuran style of sculpture, fashioned from the mottled red sandstone unique to that site. It depicts the stylised yet ample breasts, the patterned collar and the rounded shoulders of a woman who is shown leaning over a balcony. As more complete examples of this type of image suggest, this leaning female figure would have probably been accompanied by a male consort. Such images decorated the upper portions of the railing pillars of Mathuran stupas. The images usually convey a convivial mood, often depicting amorous couples and drinking scenes.
Asian Art Department, AGNSW, February 2000
