Shuanglin Temple Sakyamuni Hall: Sakyamuni Buddha

CHINA, Shanxi, Jinzhong; Ming dynasty

The Buddha is seated in lotus position on a double lotus throne with both hands making the lotus mudra. The throne is located on top of a many-angled, double Sumeru base that includes stone lanterns and auspicious creatures that serve as supporting pillars. The back-rest is in the form of a flame-surrounded mandorla with an openwork interior featuring flying horses and plants at the base, and dragons, clouds, and heavenly beings above. Near the tip of the mandorla is a small canopy.
The Buddha’s volute usnisa fits within the decorative scheme, and is backed by a plain nimbus in the prevailing colors of green and red. The figure wears a monastic robe that covers the left shoulder only as well as a lower robe. Manjusri Bodhisattva stands on one side, holding a sutra while Samantabhadra holds a lotus.