Bas-relief of Gandhāra – Two women

Description

This bas-relief shows all the refinement that can be found in Gandhāra art. Two women, richly adorned with ornaments and whose headdresses are characteristic of this region, stand here in a very dynamic position, marked by naturalism. The sculptor’s superb work on the modeling gives the impression that the two women are emerging from the architectural setting. The latter is reminiscent of the Hellenistic influences found in the Gandhāra region, first as a result of the conquests of Alexander the Great, and then through the trade enabled by the Silk Road.

The two women seem to be looking in the same direction: one can assume that they are worshipping a deity, originally represented at their side. The depth of this bas-relief as well as its naturalism, offers a harmonious and energetic whole