Seated Buddha

CHINA; Northern Qi dynasty

The Buddha sits in the full lotus position on a Sumeru-shaped lotus throne. The strands of the figure’s hair are carefully depicted as they build to a flattened usnisa. Only a hollow for the stud that represented the urna now remains on the forehead. The monastic robe that covers both shoulders is opened at the front to reveal a diagonally worn inner robe. Behind the head is a lotus nimbus superimposed on a Dharma wheel with ringed radiations about it, giving onto a broad foliated rim. The nimbus and the extended decorative pattern are enclosed by a flaming mandorla about which are five meditating Budhhas seated on lotuses.