Archangan

An archangan is a type of Buddhist reliquary found primarily in Gandhara (present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan) dating from roughly the 1st century BCE to the 5th century CE. These reliquaries typically took the form of miniature stupas or temples, crafted from stone, metal, or terracotta. Their primary function was to enshrine relics associated with the Buddha or other important Buddhist figures.

Archangans differ from typical stupas due to their smaller size and portability. They were likely used in personal or household shrines rather than in larger monastic settings. The decorative elements found on archangans often reflect a blend of Hellenistic, Iranian, and Indian artistic influences, reflecting the multicultural environment of Gandhara. Common motifs include depictions of the Buddha, bodhisattvas, and scenes from the Buddha's life. Inscriptions are occasionally found on archangans, providing valuable information about their dedicators and the rituals associated with them.