Zoroastrian fire cult, perhaps equating Ahura Mazda to the Buddha. The solar disc (nimbus) behind Buddha's head represents the deification of the ancient Iranian practice of Sun-worship, and symbolizing purity and enlightenment. The central figure is the fasting Buddha during the period of his extreme asceticism and renunciation in the process of attaining enlightenment. The sculpture shows Greek art styles in creating the emaciated Buddha with minor details all over the body. Also, note how the Buddha's facial features are typical to people of the region (Gandhara). This great piece of art was probably made during the Scytho-Parthian or Kushan period (100 BC - 250 AD).
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