Miaoying Temple White Stupa: Figurine of Amitayus Buddha

CHINA, Beijing; Ming dynasty

This Amitayus Buddha figurine was recovered from the White Stupa of Miaoying Temple in 1978. It was placed in the Stupa Pagoda in 1753 during repairs.
This small gold figurine is 5 cm high and is embedded with 44 rubies of different sizes. The Buddha has a high usnisa with a jewel on top and wears a five-leaf crown. The earrings and crown are embedded with rubies. The Buddha has big eyes, an aquiline nose and smiles as he looks down. The shoulders, covered by a stole, are broad and the waist is slender. The lower body is dressed in a long garment. The Buddha wears chest ornaments, a necklace, and bracelets, and sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne with both hands in the dhyana (meditation) mudra. A longevity vase rests on his palms.
The gilt bronze case is lined with cloth to protect the figurine. There are Tibetan mantras on the front and back of the lid.