 |
Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Amitayus Buddha
|
| |
|
Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Amitayus Buddha
BHUTAN, Wangdue Phodrang; circa 11th century; Gilt copper alloy; H: 46 cm
This elegant statue was once owned by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (reigned 1616–1651), the unifier of Bhutan.
The figure wears a three-leaf crown with a foliated pattern. The face is gilded and the facial features are accentuated with paint. Six braids of hair fall to the shoulders from the topknot. Jewelry adorns the body, which otherwise is only covered with a simple monastic robe. The Buddha sits in full lotus position, with hands in the dhyana (meditation) mudra and supports a vase of flowers. The soles of the feet are decorated with Dharma wheels. The neck once connected with a nimbus. The statue is hollow and some experts believe it was created by a Nepalese sculptor who lived in Tibet. |
