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Bihar: Seven Buddhas
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Bihar: Seven Buddhas
INDIA, Bihar; circa 10th century; Chlorite; 21.6 x 62.2 cm; Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena, California, USA
This series of seven Buddhas was excavated in Bihar. The artwork is believed to have been created in the 10th century during the Pala period (circa 8th-12th century).
The Buddhas are each enshrined in their own niches that are separated by pillars. The spandrels are decorated with lotus flowers, while the strip above the figures is engraved with an inscription of Buddhist teachings. The niche arches are shaped like trefoils. All seven Buddhas sit on a lotus throne in the full lotus position. They probably represent the five Buddhas of the past, together with the present Buddha, Sakyamuni, and the future Buddha, Maitreya. The first, third, fifth and seventh Buddhas form the dhyana (meditation) mudra and hold a bowl, while the second and sixth Buddhas form the bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. The Buddha in the center forms the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. |
