Highlight the Central Asian and Greco -Bactrian elements in Gandhara art. (Answer in 150 words)

Gandhara art is a style of Buddhist art that developed in the region of Gandhara, which is now in modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is known for its blending of Central Asian, Greco-Roman, and Indian influences, and for its depiction of the Buddha in human form.

Central Asian Elements in Gandhara Art:

Use of the Central Asian technique of “rip-saw” cutting to create fine details and deep undercuts in the sculptures
Influence from the nomadic art of the steppes, such as the use of vibrant colors and highly stylized forms
Depiction of Central Asian clothing and headgear, such as the pointed cap or “kolpak” worn by many figures
Representation of Central Asian animals such as the horse and the bull in Gandharan art

Greco-Bactrian Elements in Gandhara Art:

Use of the realistic and idealized human forms, and the depiction of muscular and athletic bodies
Influence of the Hellenistic tradition of representing movement and emotion in figures
Depiction of Greek gods and goddesses, such as Athena and Apollo, as well as scenes from Greek mythology
Use of the technique of frontality , which is the representation of figures with both eyes visible to the viewer