Sakyamuni Buddha

THAILAND

This illustration is part of a Thai manuscript written in the Pali language with Cambodian script. The manuscript is composed of 53 folds, 14 of which are illustrations. This picture depicts the Buddha in the garden of Nyagrodharama telling the story of one of his past lives as Prince Sudana. The Buddha wears a red monastic robe and sits in half lotus position on a diamond throne, reaching down with his right hand to form the bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. A golden flame atop the head symbolizes the usnisa. The backrest of the throne is outlined with patterns of golden dragon scales. The upper portion is surrounded by green leaves and stylized flames. Beside the Buddha’s throne, heavenly beings wearing pointed gold headdresses hold parasols and join their palms in reverence. Dharma wheels are painted in the upper corners. Warm red and gold colors make the Buddha stand out from the cool blue background.