Sravasti: Seated Buddha

INDIA, Uttar Pradesh, Sravasti

Though the statue was discovered at Sravasti, it was probably created in Mathura, during the time it was the eastern capital of the Kushan period (circa 1st–3rd century). Compared with other sculptures from Mathura, there are slight differences, such as the size of the head which is larger here and the usnisa is rounder in shape. The eyebrows are also more emphasized and curved. A Kharosthi inscription at the base gives the craftsman’s name but no date.
The Buddha’s body is out of proportion with the head. The feet in the full lotus position lie unnaturally flat on the thighs. The folds on the thick monastic robe covering both shoulders are conventionally depicted. The Buddha’s right hand is raised in abhaya (fearlessness) mudra and has the additional details of webbing between the fingers and a Dharma wheel in the center of the palm. Enough remains of the broken nimbus to recognize a lotus at its center. The figure sits on a cushioned throne supported at the sides by lions. Between the lions is an inset panel of a royally turbaned Bodhisattva surrounded by figures with garlands in their right hand and offerings in their left.