Female head. Gupta Empire, India, 3rd-6th century AD.

Female head. Gupta Empire, India, 3rd-6th century AD.
Terracotta.
Measurements: 14 cm.

This female face is distinguished by its large almond-shaped eyes, full lips and flattened nose. Her hairstyle is supported by side buns that give definition and slenderness to the figure. The features show a clear idealization and forms clearly reminiscent of models of ancient Greek roots, more classicist than Hellenistic however.

The Gupta period was undoubtedly one of the most brilliant periods in the history of Indian art. The Gupta Empire was one of the greatest political and military empires in the history of India, ruled by the dynasty of the same name between 320 and 550 AD, occupying most of Northern India and present-day East Pakistan and Bangladesh. Thanks to the peace that prevailed during this period, the cultural level of the city was conducive to artistic, literary and even scientific development. Within the sculpture, characterized by its balanced and smiling aspect, the artistic centers of Mathura and Gandhara stood out, which exported their productions to other territories of northern India.