Crowned Buddha Shakyamuni as World Sovereign
See it in the Museum
India and Nepal
Orientation 3
Display 2
ABS 011
Code: ABS 011
Country: India (north-west)
Style: Kashmir Region
Date: 678 - 679
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 10.5 x 22 x 7.7
Materials: Brass
Crowned Buddha Shakyamuni as World Sovereign
This magnificent statue represents a singular aspect of the historical Buddha, depicted as chakravartin or “universal monarch.” While the posture and dress do not differ from other representations, he can be distinguished by his ornaments: the crown, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets all mark royal status. Both hands make the gesture of “setting the wheel of the law in motion,” a reference to the doctrine he explains as well as to his dignity as chakravartin, the ruler “who turns the wheel of Dharma.”
The elaborate throne is supported by an Atlantean and two lions—a reference to his title of “Lion of the Śākya.” On the lower part, two figures depicted in devotional posture are identified by the inscription as the sponsors of the work, which is dated. The facial features share many similarities with the Avalokiteshvara Padmapani (ABS 015): the eyes, lips, urna, and the border of the garment are inlaid with copper and silver.
This magnificent statue represents a singular aspect of the historical Buddha, depicted as chakravartin or “universal monarch.” While the posture and dress do not differ from other representations, he can be distinguished by his ornaments: the crown, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets all mark royal status. Both hands make the gesture of “setting the wheel of the law in motion,” a reference to the doctrine he explains as well as to his dignity as chakravartin, the ruler “who turns the wheel of Dharma.”
The elaborate throne is supported by an Atlantean and two lions—a reference to his title of “Lion of the Śākya.” On the lower part, two figures depicted in devotional posture are identified by the inscription as the sponsors of the work, which is dated. The facial features share many similarities with the Avalokiteshvara Padmapani (ABS 015): the eyes, lips, urna, and the border of the garment are inlaid with copper and silver.