Head of Bodhisattva

This Bodhisattva head is carefully executed. Framed by a double row of spiral curls, the face is of the Indian type: half-closed elongated eyes, small and round nose, thin lips animated by a slight asymmetric smile. The expression is gentle, withdrawn in meditation. The Bodhisattva wears an elaborate headdress consisting of a roll of trimmings with unfortunately broken side decorations. On the right of the head, a semi-circular arch is attached to the headband by cabochons (?), and on the left, the remainder of a palmette (?) can be seen. The headdress is crowned by a bun, which is covered with a veil and is tightened in the middle of its height. At the level of the temples, a veil passing over the rows of curls is arranged towards the back, passed through the headband, with one part falling behind the ears. The ūrṇā is represented by a circle of red paint. The left nostril is highlighted by an incision. The broken earlobes were probably elongated and decorated with earrings. A fold marks the neck.

A technical study was conducted by Angela Chang of the Strauss Center for Conservation and Technical Studies for the Harvard Art Museums. The aim was to determine the composition of the materials used to make the stucco of this head. The examination also revealed that there were two successive fastening systems. The examination is currently underway to see if it is possible to determine whether the transformation was carried out in situ or in the laboratory.

Photography: Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Bequest of Grenville L. Winthrop.

https://hvrd.art/o/202859