Seated Buddha

MYANMAR

The Buddha sits in full lotus position on a throne that combines a Sumeru shape with a double lotus. The flowers are formed from openwork foliate designs. The Buddha’s usnisa terminates in a large jewel. The oval face has a wide forehead and the elongated ears are curved to touch the shoulders. Some of the facial features and decorations on the monastic robe are created by incisions and stippling. Although the Theravadin style of wearing the robe leaves the right shoulder bare, the style shown here is unconventional. An alms bowl is held in the left hand, while the right hand is opened in varada (wish-granting) mudra, and also holds a medicinal fruit.
Affixed to the base of the throne are two long stems that support the disciples Sariputra and Maudgalyayana. Both figures kneel facing the Buddha, one holding a lotus as an offering while the other has his hands joined in reverence.