Buddha in Bhumisparsha mudra or the “Earth touching gesture” is a sculpture of profound beauty in Buddhist art. Marking the moment of Buddha’s proclamation of his Enlightenment, by calling the goddess Earth to be his witness, as an answer to the efforts of Mara (the demon of desires) to move him away from the path to enlightenment. Thus, this aspect of Buddha in art is also called “Buddha Maravijaya” (Buddha who is victorious over Mara or desires).
This pink serpentine stone statue shows the Maravijaya Buddha being hailed by inhabitants of all realms as the Enlightened One. On an elaborate platform marked by the figures of female devotees and the Dhammachakra with Deer symbols, Buddha sits on a Padmasana or lotus throne. The symmetry of his coiled hair, facial expression, and the riverine flow of his garment bring to mind the classic Gandhara statues of the Buddha.
A blooming lotus forms the halo of the Buddha which is amplified by the stylized peacocks on each side and the heavenly figures hovering above. On the sides of Buddha are Yali figures, on elephants, a symbol of regalia and grandeur in Indian architecture.
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist