Sarnath: Seated Buddha

INDIA, Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi

This statue is the most well-known and most representative work from the Gupta period (circa 320–550). It is carved from the popular beige-colored sandstone from the Chunar quarries like many other sculptures from Sarnath.
The Buddha sits in full lotus position on the cushion of an ornamental throne. The Buddha’s gaze is lowered and his hands are in Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. The monastic robe covering both shoulders is diaphanous and mainly indicated by the hemlines about the neck, wrists, and ankles. A portion of the under-robe fans out ornamentally between the feet. The occasion depicted is the Buddha’s first teaching in Deer Park at Sarnath, as is indicated by the relief inset on the base of the throne. This features the five monks who were the original audience together with a mother and child to the far left. A pair of deer flanking a Dharma wheel in front of the group is a further identifier. Unusually, the wheel is presented sideways.
Behind the Buddha’s head, a plain center of the nimbus is surrounded by a wide floral band bordered on either side with beads. Two apsaras are on its upper rim scattering flowers. The lower rim cuts into the throne back, which is decorated above, with makaras, and below with winged horses.