Medicine Buddha

KOREA; Unified Silla dynasty

The downward rhythm of the sculpture is emphasized by the exaggerated length of the ear lobes, the downcast eyes and the three lines on the neck. The folds of the monastic outer robe begin with a vertical fall down the arms. The robe overlap at the right arm emphasizes this verticality while to the left a series of bold angular ripples are created, reinforced by the fingers held in lotus mudra. Below the waist, the folds proceed downwards in raised waves until the protruding skirt returns to a vertical pattern. The figure is identified as the Medicine Buddha by the pot held in the extended left hand.