3rd-5th century AD.Atlas at rest carved in schist, crouching on one knee with a muscular torso, stern facial expression with penetrating stare and abundant beard, hair swept back from the brow, robe elegantly draped across the shoulders and chest, the sturdy right arm supporting weight on the knee and the left hand gripping the shin and calf; mounted on a custom-made stand. 72.2 kg, 67cm (26 1/2"). Property of a London gentleman; previously with central London gallery; published in Apollo Magazine in February 1981; imported from the USA in the early 1970s; formerly with Mahboubian Gallery, New York since the late 1960s; accompanied by a copy of the relevant Apollo Magazine pages. The Atlas motif is among a range of imports from Greek and Persian art - caryatids, Ionic columns, drinking scenes, vines, acanthus leaves, Olympian gods and Dionysian revelries - which give Gandharan sculpture its unique flavour. The figure is derived from representation of the Greek myth of Atlas, whose task it was to uphold the sky; his thickset frame and stocky limbs indicate his ability to support any burden. Many examples of the Atlas figure are modelled with hands raised, or with a flattened upper surface to the head where an architectural feature was placed above, but in the present case the figure appears to be resting; it also does not sport the wings found on may other examples. [A video of this item is available to view on TimeLine Auctions website.] Very fine condition; the right arm and knee polished through constant ceremonial use.