Worship of the Relic Casket

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Time Period
C. 1st – 4th century CE, Kushana, Gandhara

Location found
Jamalgarhi (North-West part of Undivided India)

Dimension
H: 15.9, W: 5.5, L: 12.8 cm

Material
Schist

Number Assigned
Accession No. G167/GRS37/S-B/R-12/SF-3
Indian Museum, Kolkata, West Bengal

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This Gandhara schist sculpture depicts the worship of the relic casket, a sacred container believed to enshrine the corporeal remains or possessions of the Buddha. A reverent devotee is shown standing beside the draped relic casket placed under an ornamental canopy, symbolizing deep devotion and respect. The scene reflects the Gandhara School’s Greco-Buddhist synthesis, combining naturalistic human figures with spiritual themes. Such depictions emphasize the cult of relic worship central to early Buddhist ritual and artistic expression.

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