Ancient Buddhist Art

 Ancient Buddhist Art 

http://searchcollection.asianart.org/view/objects/asitem/nid/11134


 

This ancient Buddhist sculpture is made from stone, and it stands approximately 34 in. tall and 19 in. wide. It dates from around 300-500. The main character you are immediately drawn to is to be considered “Buddha”. The Buddha is well known and highly respected, which would explain why he is so large in comparison to others. The figure is sitting with their legs crossed and their arms being held together. The hands are not intertwined but touching. This position is a type of preaching known as “turning the wheel of the doctrine.” That phrase directly corresponds to Dharma. The figure is wearing what seems to be loose fitting robes, which are only draped across one shoulder. The figure seems to have a very calm expression on their face, hence the slightly upturned lips and the relaxed eyebrows. The Buddha is known to bring peace and unity, so having a calm expression is very fitting. Along the bottom of the platform the Buddha is sitting on, you can see there are three small people. These people are sitting with crossed legs or leaning on one knee. They are also wearing flowy clothing; however, they are more covered than the Buddha. The middle person has their hands crossed in their lap and they are looking down with closed eyes. The outer two people have their hands together in a typical praying form, and they as well are looking down with eyes closed. From their stances, you can infer that they are either praying or worshipping the Buddha. These people could symbolize donors, or they could be gods. If they were gods, they could be encouraging the “Buddha-to-be” to start his path for enlightenment. This main figure could be the next Buddha. The path to enlightenment is a huge part of Buddhism. That is why this piece is so important. In ancient times, many sculptures of the Buddha were made. I believe this is because people used art as a way to express their love and appreciation for the Buddha. 

Comments

  1. Caira LessickOctober 17, 2021 at 2:47 PM

    Annabelle, I cannot see your image without clicking on the link but I feel that you make up for that with your description. I read your blog before clicking on the link to view the sculpture and you've described it visually to a T. I agree with your thinking on creating art for Buddha. I wonder if creating art for Buddha is also a form of worship? Thanks for sharing!

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  2. Delicia ApodacaOctober 17, 2021 at 5:02 PM

    Annabelle, I think you did a really good job not only describing the piece but describing the overall meaning. Personally, I thought the Buddha would be taller considering the status or importance it holds in Hinduism. Do you believe in karma? Or do you believe everything happens for a reason?

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  3. Eliana CarltonOctober 31, 2021 at 9:48 PM

    You did a great job describing the sculpture and the intricate details within it. I also liked how you included the measurements of the work. The meanings you prescribed to the details add to the affect. I would however include more historical context to the description, as it is an art history class it's important to include. Does the buddhist art stand out to you?

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  4. kalebNovember 2, 2021 at 8:44 AM

    I really enjoyed the detailed words you used to describe the Buddha. I feel as if you not only described the art itself but also included a good amount of information about the Buddha so we could connect all aspects of what the Buddha is and what people believed it was there for.

    ReplyDelete

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