GANDHARA SCHOOL


The Gandhara school developed in the north-western region of the Indian sub-continent. The region came under the political influence of a variety of kingdoms - Greek, Mauryan, Parthian, Kushan, Synthian and this resulted in the emergence of a mixed school of art which borrowed from various traditions. This school contributed to development of Buddha's image which was usually carved out of grey slate stone and was characterised by hellenistic features. These include - wavy hair in a top knot, sometimes a moustache on the face, urna between the eyebrows, garment with thick pleats usually covering both shoulders styled like a roman toga, plain halo behind the head and muscular formation of the body. The expression of calmness in the centre of attraction.

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