Gandhara Art

Gandhara art refers to a distinctive style of Buddhist sculpture that emerged in the region of Gandhara, located in present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, around the 1st century CE. This art form is characterized by its realistic representations of human figures, intricate details, and influences from Hellenistic (Greek) and Persian art due to historical trade and cultural exchange. Gandhara artists depicted Buddhist themes, such as the life of the Buddha, using materials like schist and stucco. The art played a significant role in spreading Buddhism and remains an important part of cultural heritage, showcasing the fusion of Eastern and Western artistic traditions.