Fragment of a relief frieze depicting two figures and a large garland. The nude, chubby figure who carries the loop of the garland on his shoulder is an amorino; a representation of Eros, the Greek god of love who was also worshipped as a fertility deity. He wears a bracelet, a necklace and his hair in a topknot with curls radiating down. The second figure appears to be a noble youth carrying an offering. He wears the same bracelet and necklace as the amorino in addition to large ear ornaments, a moustache and a long scarf held in the arms which is lifted up to frame the figure in a circle. The garland is divided into three different sections, each with its own distinct pattern of leaves. A large cluster of grapes hangs in the center from the bottom loop of the garland. This piece is most likely from the decorative base of a larger sculpture.
For similar example, see Ingholt, Harold. Gandharan Art in Pakistan. Pantheon Books Inc (1957) figure 380.
Condition: Fragment from a larger frieze. There is a small, modern piercing near the leg of the amorino, and loss of the proper right leg of the amorino below the knee. There is heavy superficial dirt overall, inside the crevices and incised lines. Otherwise intact and in excellent condition overall. Museum quality custom mount.
Dimensions: height 8 inches (20.3 centimeters), width 14.5 inches (36.8 centimeters)
Provenance: The Bernice Longazel collection of Gandhara Art, assembled in the early 1960's.
