Sakyamuni Buddha Seated on a Lotus
Date17th century
Mediumbronze, gilding and pigment
DimensionsOverall: 28 1/4 x 18 1/4 x 11 7/8 in. (71.8 x 46.4 x 30.2 cm)
ClassificationsVisual Works
Credit LineGift of Dr. and Mrs. Carl Henry Davis
Object number58.244.019
DescriptionSeated in padmasana, the lotus position, and on a lotus base, this serene image of the Buddha holds his hands in bhumisparsa mudra. Literally bhumisparsha translates into touching the earth or the earth witness mudra. It is one of the five classic mudras associated with Buddhism. This position is also symbolic of the Buddha acquiring enlightenment under the bodhi tree. He bears the ancient Indian symbol of longlife, the swastika (?), on his chest.
