Highlight the Central Asian and Greco -Bactrian elements in Gandhara art. (Answer in 150 words)
Gandhara art is a style of Buddhist art that developed in the region of Gandhara, which is now in modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is known for its blending of Central Asian, Greco-Roman, and Indian influences, and for its depiction of the Buddha in human form.
Central Asian Elements in Gandhara Art:
- Use of the Central Asian technique of “rip-saw” cutting to create fine details and deep undercuts in the sculptures
- Influence from the nomadic art of the steppes, such as the use of vibrant colors and highly stylized forms
- Depiction of Central Asian clothing and headgear, such as the pointed cap or “kolpak” worn by many figures
- Representation of Central Asian animals such as the horse and the bull in Gandharan art
Greco-Bactrian Elements in Gandhara Art:
- Use of the realistic and idealized human forms, and the depiction of muscular and athletic bodies
- Influence of the Hellenistic tradition of representing movement and emotion in figures
- Depiction of Greek gods and goddesses, such as Athena and Apollo, as well as scenes from Greek mythology
- Use of the technique of frontality , which is the representation of figures with both eyes visible to the viewer
