Dambulla Cave 2: Sakyamuni Buddha

SRI LANKA, Central Province, Matale

Located on the ceiling of the cave, the Buddha is depicted sitting on a lotus throne in full lotus position, surrounded by a multi-layered round mandorla. The Buddha’s densely curled hair is topped with a flame pattern representing the usnisa, and there is a small oval nimbus behind the head. The Buddha has fine eyebrows, a high nose, elongated earlobes, broad shoulders, and three lines around the neck. A monastic robe is draped over the left shoulder, and both of the Buddha’s hands form the dhyana (meditation) mudra.
The mandorla surrounding the Buddha is brightly painted in multiple colors and designed with a radial pattern, giving the impression that it is expanding outwards. A Bodhi tree is located on top of the mandorla, decorated with red accents and encompassed by a black and white outline. Heavenly beings making offerings are seen on both sides of the Buddha, while the remaining space is filled with clouds and geometric flowers.