The moment of inception of the Buddha, when the prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the pipal tree is symbolized by the bhumisparsha mudra which literally means “earth touching,” and is also called “earth witness.” It is to be an appeal to the earth goddess to witness the Buddha’s ascendance to the state of enlightenment. For Buddhist devotees Buddhism is a continual search on the path to enlightenment. As explained by Matthieu Ricard, in Buddhism “enlightenment is a state of perfect knowledge or wisdom, combined with infinite compassion… an understanding of both the relative mode of existence (the way in which things appear to us) and the ultimate mode of existence (the true nature of these same appearances). This includes our own minds as well as the external world. Such knowledge is the basic antidote to ignorance and suffering.”
Matthieu Riccard, What does Buddhism mean by “Enlightenment”? matthiericardblogpost.org, Dec 7, 2010
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Hand-made metal Nepalese 7-level stupa/pagoda with decorative details around the base and round eaves with scalloped edges used for personal worship.
Rare, gilt covered Jambupati Buddha in Earth Witnessing position on high multi-tiered throne. Court attire, luxuriant jewelry and decorative flanges on faceted crown topped by long ushnisha. Strength and smile emphasize his spiritual and material power.
Tibetan repoussé of Shakyamuni Buddha in Earth Witnessing mudra within a trefoil arch on a lotus base.
Finely modeled 20th century Mandalay style Burmese bronze Buddha in Earth Witnessing mudra made by lost wax process is a one-of-a-kind exquisite work of art. Soft youthfully sweet smiling face with almond-shaped eyes are inlaid with glass.
This stoneware glazed garden stool was used by a wealthy family reflected in its complex designs, auspicious symbols and its use of so much cobalt blue, a highly prized and expensive mineral paint color normally used sparingly. The pierced side to side circles running through the inside from side to side and the pierced design…
This mid 20th century Buddha Shakyamuni in Earth Witnessing position is carved in rural Lao style. Covered with gilt, the small rustic and simply carved image follows Lao artistic canons for depicting a Buddha: a curved hairline and high arched eyebrows that meet at the bridge of the nose, distinct hair curls, long ears, and a flame-shaped radiance emerging from his ushnisha. Its very large base is as tall and wide as the image, reflecting Laotian beliefs that a high pedestal reflects a deep respect for the Buddha. A base has been added for display purposes. Authentic old Lao images, even small personal ones like this, are difficult to find.
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