Gandharan Buddha
The "Gandharan Buddha" refers to a style of Buddhist sculpture that emerged in the Gandhara region, which is present-day northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan, around the 1st century CE. This art form is characterized by its realistic portrayal of the human figure, influenced by Hellenistic art due to the region's historical interactions with Greek culture following Alexander the Great's conquests.
Gandharan sculptures often depict the Buddha in various poses, such as meditation or teaching, and are made from materials like schist and stucco. These artworks played a significant role in spreading Buddhism and its teachings throughout Central Asia and beyond, showcasing the blend of local and foreign artistic traditions.