Salagiri: Life of the Buddha - Parinirvana

MYANMAR, Rakhine, Salagiri

The relief panel is thought to have been part of a set representing the Life of the Buddha that was once located in a temple. The vertical composition is divided into two by the diagonal platform on which the Buddha lies. He is portrayed in the upper section on his right side with legs parallel and his head supported on his hand. Three trees are in the background, representing the forest of sala trees in which he passed into parinirvana. The three figures at the bottom are disciples, all showing some form of grief. The one on the left holds out his hands, the disciple in the center has a leg tucked up and his head inclined to one side, while the remaining figure seem to be beating his chest. Such expressive display of sorrow contrasts distinctly with the Buddha’s serenity.