Ajanta Cave 1: Buddha Teaching the Dharma
Stone
Ajanta Cave 1: Buddha Teaching the Dharma
INDIA, Maharashtra, Aurangabad
This figure is located within the main shrine. The Buddha has curled hair, long earlobes, and thick lips. The eyes are closed and the face is serene. A floral-patterned nimbus encircles the head. The Buddha is seated in full lotus position and forms the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. The body is broad and strong.
On either side of the Buddha are attendant Bodhisattvas. They wear elaborate crowns and jewelry, and hold whisks. Two heavenly beings carrying offerings are situated above the Bodhisattvas. In the center of the throne is a Dharma wheel flanked by disciples and two deer, symbolizing the First Turning of the Dharma Wheel. Traces of color are still visible on the sculptures.
For more details, go to the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts: Caves A-E, page 11.
Cite this article:
author = Hsingyun and Youheng and Johnson, Peter and Mankuang and Huntington, Susan and Edson, Gary and Neather, Robert,
booktitle = {Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts: Caves A-E},
pages = 11,
title = {{Ajanta Cave 1: Buddha Teaching the Dharma}},
volume = 5,
year = {2016}}