Mathura: Life of the Buddha - Four Heavenly Kings Offering Bowls

INDIA, Uttar Pradesh, Mathura

Unearthed from Isapur, Mathura, the scene depicted in this relief is considered to be one of the earliest images of the Buddha from Mathura. It depicts the event shortly after enlightenment when traveling merchants came with a food offering. Realizing that the Buddha had nothing in which to accept it, the Four Heavenly Kings each brings an alms bowl. The Buddha is seated in full lotus position on a diamond throne and most likely makes the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra with the left hand. The figure wears a monastic robe. The throne is balanced on the heads of two lions, beneath which are the balcony-like column dividers. The Four Heavenly Kings paying homage are squeezed into the space at the sides.