Bharhut: Paying Respect to a Sala Tree

INDIA, Madhya Pradesh, Bharhut

This relief is one of six such medallions found at Bharhut depicting the trees, under which past Buddhas have become enlightened. The inscription above the circular carving identifies this scene as the enlightenment tree of Visvabhu Buddha. The sala tree is flanked by a male and female devotee and a pair depicted kneeling in reverence. The Dharma wheel is on the throng surmounted by the triratna symbol often depicted at that time. The aristocratic couple stands on either side of the tree and makes offerings of a garland and a bowl of scented water. Garlands already hang from the tree’s branches and flowers have been placed about the base of the throne.