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Goshinji Temple: Prince Siddhartha at Birth
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Goshinji Temple: Prince Siddhartha at Birth
JAPAN, Nara, Uda; Hakuho period (645–710), late 7th century; Gilt copper alloy; H: 13.9 cm
The statue depicts Prince Siddhartha just after his birth and dates from the late 7th century. It is listed as an Important Cultural Property.
Prince Siddhartha stands barefoot with right hand pointing upwards and the left hand downwards, although the right index finger is damaged. The prince, despite being newly born, is depicted with curly hair and a high usnisa. These physical characteristics are only later attained when he becomes a Buddha. The slender figure wears bracelets, a skirt that is knotted at the waist with extra fabric from the belt hanging down to the ankles. The figure stands on a lotus pedestal. The top half of the pedestal was cast with the statue, while the bottom half was cast with the octagonal openwork base and later joined together. |
