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Mendut Temple: Buddha and Bodhisattvas
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Mendut Temple: Buddha and Bodhisattvas
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Mendut Temple: Buddha and Bodhisattvas
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Mendut Temple: Buddha and Bodhisattvas
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Mendut Temple: Buddha and Bodhisattvas
INDONESIA, Central Java, Magelang; 8th–9th century; Andesite
Sakyamuni Buddha is seated against the back wall of the temple, flanked by Bodhisattvas on the adjacent east and west walls. All three have petal-shaped nimbuses and sit on Sumeru thrones with lotus footstools. The 3 m high Buddha is in the classical teaching posture with legs pendent and hands in the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. Other features include half-closed eyes and the three lines on the neck indicating a great person. The monastic robe leaves the right shoulder bare and is completely transparent apart from slight indications of the hem at various places. The seat-back is decorated with carvings of animals such as makaras, lions, and elephants.
The Bodhisattva on the left is in the relaxation posture and wears a high crown fronted by a Buddha. Apart from the jewelry, a stole is draped across the figure’s chest and the right hand lies along the thigh in varada (wish-granting) mudra. The other Bodhisattva is in a similar posture. Triangular ornaments of differing designs decorate the high headdress and a sacred thread hangs across the chest. The right hand held before the chest may once have held an identifying attribute. |
