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Head of a Female Figure
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Head of a Female Figure
INDIA; circa 6th–7th century; Terracotta; H: 20.4 cm; Art Institute of Chicago, USA
The town of Ushkur (present day Kashmir), where this head was believed to be discovered, was known as Huvishkapura in ancient times and its Buddhist temples flourished into the 6th century and beyond. Many of the terracotta sculptures found in their stupas have been dated to this period.
The facial features and the hair of the head suggest it was sculpted in the likeness of the local people. There are similarities to the terracotta sculptures of Akhnoor or plaster statues of Gandhara, where they are delineated with simplicity. The hair has been combed back from the broad head and is slightly crinkled. The upward sweep of the eyebrows has been exaggerated and there is an obvious smile on the lips. The lack of context makes it difficult to identify the social status of this female figure. |
