Sanchi Stupa 1: Buddha Triad

INDIA, Madhya Pradesh, Sanchi

There is a Buddha triad within each gateway of Stupa 1. An inscription found on the railings around the eastern gateway states that around the year 450, devotees made an offering of light to these four Buddhas. The Buddha located at the east entrance is the most well preserved of the four, although the two attendant Bodhisattvas and the apsaras hovering above have suffered more damage.
The composition is characteristic of the Gupta style. The Buddha has a flattened usnisa and small curls that appears out of proportion to the broad-shouldered body. The folds of the monastic robe are created by simple line incisions. The Bodhisattvas on either side carry whisks over the shoulder furthest from the Buddha. They stand with one foot forward and hands on jutting hips. The nimbus behind the Buddha is elaborately carved, starting with a lotus flower in the center, followed by two foliated bands and a sun-burst edge.