Seated Buddha

MYANMAR; Bagan Empire

The Buddha, created circa the Bagan Empire (circa 849–1287) is seated in full lotus position with the right hand in bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. The hair is uncurled and the usnisa is almost flattened. Not only do the ears flare out prominently, the lobes are lengthened to shoulder level. The downcast eyes seem almost closed, while the obvious smile replicates the pattern of upward curves at the base of the ears and about the neck with its three lines. The monastic robe leaves the right shoulder bare, with free edge arranged neatly over the left shoulder, and hangs the length of the torso. A few simple lines indicate the hem where it ripples from the left wrist and over the ankles.