Lot 3 | Important crowned Buddha on lion throne

IMPORTANT CROWNED BUDDHA ON LION THRONE.

Origin: North East India or Bangladesh.
Dynasty: Pala dynasty (750-1161).
Date: 10th c.
Technique: Black stone, carved in fine relief and polished.
Description: The Buddha seated in meditation posture with the soles of his feet facing upwards on a
double lotus above the lion throne and his hands in earth-touching gesture (bhumisparsha
mudra). Behind the Buddha a trefoil floral head nimbus with apotropaic Kirtimukha mask in
the center, above three branches of the tree of enlightenment. The apex of the stele
decorated richly with pilasters at both sides, flanked by standing vyala on a small
elephant and crowned with a hamsa bird. Above again two small Buddha performing the
teaching gesture (dharmachakra mudra) with both hands. The representation of the earth
goddess in the base of the throne between the two lions is quite rare. It is her who is
called to witness that he resisted the temptations of Mara and attained enlightenment.
Measurement: Height 65 cm, width 35 cm, deepth 15cm.
Frame/Pedestal: On a separate metal base.


This classic and well-preserved Buddha of the early Pala period belongs to the so-called Kurkihar style with high crown and lush necklace. This style is named after bronzes found in Kurkihar in the Gaya district of Bihar.

Provenance:
European private collection.