Foucher, Alfred. “The Greek Origin of the Image of Buddha.” The Beginnings of Buddhist Art, and Other Essays in Indian and Central-Asian Archaeology, Geuthner, 1917.
The oldest known figural Buddha depictions today are at the House of Marvels in Pakistan, and through this reading we discover how and why they appear to have a Greek origin. As Foucher points out, a main route of communication and access from India to the Asiatic continent was guarded by Greek merchants between the fourth and fifth century. This shows how the two societies interacted and shared ideas. Foucher stated when viewing the early Buddha statues, “you cannot fail to be struck by its Hellenic character.” (119) From the shape of the eyes, to the draping folds of the clothes, the image is, in Foucher’s eyes, undeniably a product of Greek art. These viewings and accounts are, of course, from Foucher himself and he lived in the early 20th century. The same viewing experience and judgement is not necessarily shared by all viewers at all times, however this reading provides more insight on the perspective of that time.
This reading did a good job formulating the titular argument. I was unaware of the extent that the Greeks interacted with India in the fourth and fifth century. From merchant paths to attempted invasions, the Greeks and the Indians were familiar and it shows in the influence on Buddhism and their artistic creations.
