This is one of the earliest and largest sculpted representations of Buddha Shakyamuni (563-483 BCE) that survives from Central Tibet. It was created during a resurgence of Buddhism in Tibet during the 10th–12th centuries, known as the Second Propagation of Buddhism in Tibet, which flourished in the Tibetan heartland following the arrival in 1045 of the Indian Buddhist master, Atisha (982-1054). Stylistically, the image was influenced by artistic and religious contact with the illustrious Pala dynasty of northeast India (750-1162). It is well-modeled and has a classic early central Tibetan face, with serene features and a radiant smile that aptly conveys the Buddha’s transcendent insight and compassion. His hands and feet are dynamically animated with lyrical movement and fine detailing of the fingernails and joints. They are also appropriately graced with the sacred markings (lakshanas) symbolic of a spiritually superior being. He has lotus blossoms on his palms and soles, as well as unusually prominent lifelines that refer to the Buddha's many lives prior to his enlightenment. Iconographically, the image depicts the defining event in the life of the Buddha, when his worthiness to attain liberation was challenged by Mara, the god of sensual desire. By extending his right hand down to touch the earth, his only witness to the immense spiritual merit he had achieved in his numerous past lives, he caused it to thunder out its support and thereby affirm his right of enlightenment.
