Ajanta Cave 6: Buddha Teaching the Dharma

INDIA, Maharashtra, Aurangabad

These statues are found in a small shrine to the right of the portico on the upper level of Cave 6. In the center is Sakyamuni Buddha seated in full lotus position. His hands form the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. A Buddha stands to either side on lotus pedestals. They face slightly inward and their right hands form the varada (wish-granting) mudra, while in the left hand they hold vases. All three Buddhas have usnisas, curled hair, and broad shoulders, exhibiting strength and grace. Apsaras and makaras are carved in relief behind the Buddhas. On the base of the throne, a Dharma wheel is carved at the center and on each side is a deer, a disciple with palms joined, and a lion. The decorations on the throne and the mudra of the central Buddha represent Sakyamuni’s First Turning of the Dharma Wheel at Deer Park.