Indian and Himalayan Art Historical Buddha Shakyamuni with His Life Events Made in Bihar, Bodhgaya Region, India, AsiaPala-Sena Dynasty (750-1100), c. Late 9th to early 10th century Artist/maker unknown, India Schist * Gallery 231, Asian Art, second floor 1921-36-14 Purchased with the George W.B. Taylor Fund, 1921 |
LabelIn sculpture created during the rule of the Pala dynasty (eighth through twelfth century), the eight pivotal life events of the historical Buddha were usually illustrated by each event being reduced to its most essential elements. In this image, the central Buddha sits with his hands folded in the gesture of meditation (dhyanamudra), probably indicating the episode in which he receives a bowl of honey from a devoted monkey. Clockwise from the bottom left the other events implied are: the birth of the Buddha; the taming of the wild elephant Nalagiri; the enlightenment; the death (parinirvana); the first sermon; the descent from the heaven where the Buddha preached to his dead mother; and the display of supernatural powers.* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit. |
