Graeco-Buddhist art

Graeco-Buddhist art refers to the fusion of Greek and Buddhist artistic traditions that emerged in the region of Gandhara (present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan) from the 1st to 5th centuries CE. This unique style developed after Alexander the Great's conquests introduced Greek culture to the East. Artists blended Hellenistic techniques, such as realistic human forms and drapery, with Buddhist themes, producing sculptures and carvings depicting the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and scenes from Buddhist life. This cross-cultural exchange significantly influenced the representation of Buddhist iconography and contributed to the spread of Buddhism into Central Asia and beyond.