Seated Image of the Buddha Shaka
Original Language Title釈迦如来坐像
CultureJapanese
Date13th century
MediumLacquered and gilded wood with crystal inlays
DimensionsOverall: 20 1/2 × 16 1/2 × 13 1/4 inches (52.07 × 41.91 × 33.66 cm)
Credit LineGift of Richard Stern
Object number2001.4.1
On View
Not on viewCollections
DescriptionTypical of representations of Buddhas, this sculpture emphasizes the contemplative spirit of this holiest of Buddist deities, with eyes downcast in meditation and legs tucked into the lotus position. The gilt covering the entire body enhances the Buddha's transcendental presence. This image is Shaka ("Shakyamuni" in Sanskrit), the mortal Buddha who lived in India in the sixth century B.C. He raises his right hand in reassurance and lays his left hand palm-up in his lap as a symbol of his charitable nature.Gallery LabelBuddhism took root in Japan in the mid-500s c.e. Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism, is known to Japanese people as Shaka, or the Awakened One. He was born in what is now Nepal in about 500 b.c.e. This sculpture emphasizes Shaka’s contemplative spirit — eyes downcast in meditation, legs tucked into the lotus position. The Buddha’s right hand is raised in a gesture of reassurance, while his left hand rests palm up to show his charitable nature. The gilt covering the entire body emphasizes the Buddha's peaceful presence.
With Richard J. Stern (1913-2001), Kansas City, MO, by January 1976;
His gift to The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City, MO, March 2001
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