Inscribed Reliquary, Donated by King Indravarman

Art Historical Context

This exquisite schist reliquary, in the ancient region of Gandhara (modern-day Bajaur, Pakistan) during the 5th–6th centuries CE, exemplifies the refined stone-carving traditions of South Asian Buddhist art. Small enough to hold in the palm of one’s hand—measuring just 3 5/8 inches in diameter—the cylindrical vessel was designed to contain sacred relics, often fragments of bone or other remains associated with revered figures. Its smooth, cool surface and precise carving reflect the durability and fine grain of schist, a stone favored by Gandharan sculptors for both monumental and portable wor...