Rare Large Ming Buddha on Elaborate Lotus Throne, China, H: 40″ (17008)

Description

Although there have been countless Buddhas, only Shakyamuni is the historical figure who lived on earth spreading Buddhist teachings. He sits on a double lotus throne used only for enlightened beings, representing the “mother’s lap, the origin of all life.” His hands are in dhyana-mudra (meditation) symbolizing the perfect physical and spiritual balance he assumed under the Bodhi tree before enlightenment. The touching thumbs form a triangle that represent the Three Jewels of Buddhism (triratna): the Buddha, the Dharma (the Buddhas teachings) and the Sangha (the religious community). His legs are in the lotus position (padmasana), soles facing up resting on the thighs. His face radiates serenity in a benign expression with downcast eyes under arched eyebrows and a slightly smiling mouth.

His three-part monk’s robe is characteristic of Ming/Qing dynasty statues, cascading folds over an under garment (dhoti) gathered at the waist, a shawl over his shoulders and back. He displays many of the 32 physical traits which identify a Buddha (lakshanas): a cranial protuberance (usnisha) denoting divine energies centered by a painted hemisphere (nikkeishu) the jewel radiating the light of wisdom and pendulous ears denoting he can “hear” the suffering of all beings and respond with compassion. His head is crowned with snail-like spiral curls alluding to the snails who formed a protective helmet over the Buddha’s head in gratitude for his love for all sentient beings. Given its size and consecration by a monk in an eye-opening ceremony, the statue was likely placed in a community shrine or temple. It is in excellent condition given its age.