ClassificationsAsian Art

Figure of Buddha Shakyamuni

Place CreatedChina, Asia

CultureTibet

Date14th Century

MediumBronze, inlaid copper

Credit LineThe Ester R. Portnow Collection of Asian Art, a gift of the Nathan Rubin-Ida Ladd Family Foundation

Dimensions9 1/16 x 6 1/4 x 5 1/2 in. (23 x 15.9 x 14 cm)

Object number2001.001.002

Label TextThe diminutive size of this bronze sculpture suggests it would have been placed on a personal shrine alongside other beloved deities in the Tibetan pantheon. Arrayed before them on a silk brocade cloth might have been diverse offerings of butter lamps, incense, water, flowers, and food – gifts of gratitude for the enlightened ones who point the way.

The right hand of the Buddha of our present era, Shakyamuni, is in the earth-touching gesture signifying the moment of his enlightenment.
Exhibition HistoryMCCM Permanent Collection Reinstallation, September 2004 - August 29, 2018
MCCM Permanent Collection Reinstallation, August 28, 2021 - Present
Published ReferencesChristie's New York, Indian and Southeast Asian Art (March 22, 2000), 58, lot 56.

ProvenanceEx coll., Europe, until March 22, 2000. Purchased for MCCM by Robert Walzer [Nathan Rubin - Ida Ladd Family Foundation], Georgetown, Connecticut, from Christie's New York, Sale 9390, March 22, 2000, lot 56.

Status

On view

Collections