Standing Buddha

INDIA

This Buddha is believed to have originated from the Andhra Pradesh region and might have flanked a stupa gateway. The usnisa is understated and the curls are almost indistinguishable. The monastic robe leaves the right shoulder bare, and is draped loosely over the left arm, while the hand grasps the edge of the garment. Carved in low relief in the background are stacked pillars that support an arch above the Buddha’s head, its curve framing the circular nimbus. The abhaya (fearlessness) mudra could be identified from the damaged right hand. An inscription in Brahmi along the stepped base identifies a female as the sculpture’s donor.