Sahri Bahlol: Buddha Teaching the Dharma

PAKISTAN, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Peshawar

The robed Buddha is seated in full lotus position upon a four-tier lotus throne. A crowned Maitreya stands on the right of the Buddha and to his left is Avalokitesvara with a lotus held in the left hand. Both Bodhisattvas wear jewelry and a stole that loops over their right arm. There are two smaller figures in the background. The figure wearing the headdress holds a vajra and is Sakra while the other figure holding a vase is identified as Brahma.
The tree-like canopy above the Buddha conceals a heavenly being and two Bodhisattvas among its foliage. Domed niches supported by Corinthian columns are on either side of the canopy. These niches contain a meditating Buddha seated on a lotus throne. A series of the Buddha’s life are featured on the frieze located at the base of this work. In the center, a throned Buddha receives homage and offerings. The Naga Kings, Nanda and Upananda, who become followers of the Buddha are on the far left. This work is sometimes said to depict the Miracle at Sravasti, but there is no unanimity on the subject.