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Sanchi Stupa 2: Peacock Relief
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Sanchi Stupa 2: Peacock Relief
INDIA, Madhya Pradesh, Sanchi; circa late 2nd century BCE; Sandstone; Diameter: 40.5 cm
The peacock is modeled in low relief and appears on a medallion on the stupa railing at Sanchi Stupa 2. The bird's tail feathers were used to occupy most of the space at a time when it was the convention to fill all available space. Peahens and flowers are depicted in the remainder of the foreground and sides.
Peacocks are revered in Buddhism for their ability to consume poisonous snakes while being unharmed. They are identified as Dharma protectors because of this ability and examples of how the Bodhisattva can live in the world and remain unaffected by its temptations. |
