Buddha Shakyamuni

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Buddha Shakyamuni

Thailand, Mon-Dvaravati, Mon-Dvaravati, circa 8th-9th century
Sculpture
Copper alloy
9 x 3 1/8 x 2 in. (22.9 x 7.9 x 5.1 cm)
Gift of Michael Phillips and Juliana Maio (AC1997.208.1)
Not currently on public view

Curator Notes

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This standing Buddha was likely made in the Mon-Dvaravati kingdom in north-central Thailand (7th-13th century). Mon-Dvaravati is also the name used for a related artistic style that existed somewhat earlier and continued after the actual dates of the kingdom. The Buddha stands with a slight sway in his waist. He has a pointed cranial protuberance symbolizing his omniscience (ushnisha), snail curl hair, and distended earlobes, the latter two features symbolizing his renunciation of the princely realm when he previously had long locks and wore heavy golden ear ornaments. He stares slightly downward towards the viewer with wide open eyes. Although difficult to discern given the current surface condition of the image, his monastic robe likely covered only his left shoulder. His right hand is held in the gesture of discourse (vitarka mudra). His left hand, now missing, would have likely held the hem of his robe. Comparable images are in the Art Institute of Chicago (2016.433) and Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (1984.484.3, 1992.99, and 1993.387.6).
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