Amaravati: Footprints of the Buddha

INDIA, Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati; Satavahana period

This pair of footprints was excavated at Amaravati. The central motif of these footprints is the thousand-spoked Dharma wheels carved into the soles. The evenness of the feet is one of the Thirty-Two Marks of Excellence attributed to a Buddha. Auspicious swastikas, symbolizing long life, are on the heel next to the triratna, the three jewels symbol. Palm tree patterns are visible on the joints of the toes. Footprints mounted on a low footstool symbolized the Buddha’s presence since in earlier times. Footprints were used to mark the places that the Buddha had been during his travels. Footprints were widely revered not only in India but also in South East Asia, China, Korea, and Japan. The low reliefs of figures standing with palms joined in reverence on either side of the foot prints may reflect contemporary religious practice.