Seated Buddha

PAKISTAN; Kushan period

The statue was probably excavated from Peshawar. The distinct design at the bottom suggests it was intended for attachment to a separately constructed pedestal, whereas usually both pedestal and figure were made from a single block of stone. A pole-like structure above the plain nimbus belongs to the base of a missing canopy. The hands are in a mudra which suggests the statue represents the Buddha delivering his first teaching.
The Buddha sits in full lotus position, wearing a monastic robe that leaves the right shoulder bare. The raised folds are meticulously depicted, especially where the material is stretched over the knees.