Art of Asia | Antiquity to Present Day

Gandhara is the ancient name of a region in northwest Pakistan bounded by the Hindu Kush mountain range and the Himalayas. The Gandharan Empire made itself wealthy in part by controlling trade between China and the Mediterranean Sea; a great deal of this wealth went into local patronage of artisans and artists. In the first century CE, Buddhism became popular among Gandharan elites, making them some of the most powerful Buddhist patrons in South Asia. A long Gandharan schist frieze will be highlighted in the upcoming Art of Asia | Antiquity to Present Day auction, presented by Artemis Gallery. This carved relief stone panel features a scene of seated Buddhas, attendants, and classically-inspired architectural features.

Blue pottery, also known as “Kaashi Gari,” was introduced in Multan by artisans who came with Arab conqueror Muhammad Bin Qasim. Archaeologists believe that this art has roots in the Kashan city of Persia and the Kashgar city of China. A 19th-century Kaashi Gari vessel is among the key lots. The glazed ceramic vessel features traditional leaf-like motifs adorning the neck, mouth, handles, and tiered base. Its body bears two well-modeled wild felines, one pinning the other on its back. Explore these items and register to bid online on LiveAuctioneers.