Seated Protective Buddha

second half 6th century

Not on view

The preaching Buddha seated with pendant legs (the so-called ‘European Posture’) became the signature icon of the monumental stupas built by the Mon state in 8th century central Thailand. These stupas were flanked by four such Buddhas in quartz stone, over 30 feet in height. The importance of this miniature icon of a Buddha expounding the dharma lies in both it serving as an early prototype for such monumental Buddhas, and because of the likelihood that it is the earliest bronze version of this subject known.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Seated Protective Buddha
Date: second half 6th century
Culture: Thailand (Mon-Dvaravati)
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: H. 3 in. (7.6 cm); W. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm); D. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of Jeff Soref and Paul Lombardi, in honor of Natalie Soref, 2015
Object Number: 2015.782.2
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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8th–9th century

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