This small bronze Buddha (16.8 cm) is probably one of the earliest (1st to mid-2nd century) iconic representations of Shakyamuni from Gandhara. He sits in a yogic posture holding his right hand in abhaya mudra (a gesture of approachability); his unusual halo has serrations that indicate radiating light. His hairstyle, the form of his robes, and the treatment of the figure reflect stylistic contacts with the classical traditions of the West. This Buddha shows closer affinities to Roman sculpture than any other surviving Gandharan bronze.
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Bronze Buddha with traces of gold leaf, 1st to mid-2nd century. © Metropolitan Museum of Art
Bronze Buddha with traces of gold leaf, 1st to mid-2nd century. © Metropolitan Museum of Art
Bronze Buddha with traces of gold leaf, 1st to mid-2nd century. © Metropolitan Museum of Art
© The Metropolitan Museum of Art
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Categories: Art, Buddhism, Encyclopedia, History
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Can you date this figure?
Yes, 1st to mid-2nd century. This is very early for a Buddhist statue Helen.
R
For some reason,this gives me hope.Thank you for sharing this.
What is he holding in his left hand?
Erikleo,
His robe, Theravadan monks still wear a similar outer robe which they roll up at the edge and hold.
R
The small bronze Buddha looks like an actual human being – great