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Swat: Life of the Buddha - Mourning over the Casket
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Swat: Life of the Buddha - Mourning over the Casket
PAKISTAN, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Swat; circa 2nd–5th century; Schist; H: 18 cm; National Museum of Pakistan, Karachi
The scene is bordered at both ends by squared Corinthian columns. The casket has been tied with vines and placed on a catafalque with ornamental legs. The twin sala trees, where the Buddha 's passing takes place are overhead. A brazier is foremost in the tableau possibly indicating the scene takes place at night. The mourning Malla princes, whose task it is to arrange for the cremation of the body, are in the background. A disciple strains to lift the casket, while the other is overcome by emotion and is weighing down his end. |
