Nanpaya Pagoda: Brahma

MYANMAR, Mandalay, Bagan

The relief is one of the eight on the pedestal that supports the central Buddha. Brahma, a Hindu deity, is recognized in Buddhism as one who presides over the realm of heavenly rebirths and as a Dharma protector. Here, the deity is shown with three faces beneath a tower-like headdress. The upper body is bare except for a stole worn diagonally across the chest and a skirt knotted at the waist. The figure, in the royal ease posture is seated on a lotus. He holds two lotuses in his hands. The slight paunch with which Brahma is depicted is a stylistic peculiarity of Mon art. An arching alcove carved with stylized flames encloses the figure. The panel above features a row of kirtimukhas, the mythical creatures of gluttony and greed, disgorging beaded ornaments.