Sculpture

Physical description

A standing figure with detachable arched surround (torana). The right hand in abhaya mudra; the left in kataka mudra, each with conventional palm marks. The right shoulder is left bare by the robe which clings tightly to the flesh. Other details include a flamed ushnisa (now damaged), an urna approximating to the shape of an inverted question mark, and extended earlobes. The torana is formed by two spewing makaras and surmounted by a kirti-mukha. The figure was cast separately from its lotus pedestal, the latter cast in one piece with the base. Traces of encrusted carbonate matter indicate that the image has been buried in the ground for a long period. On the front of the base is an inscription in Grantha characters which reads:

Gautamasva dharmam Literally, " the votive offering of Gautama (name of donor)."

Date

15th Century (made)

Artist/maker

unknown (production)

Materials and Techniques

Copper alloy

Dimensions

Height: 15 in

Object history note

This image, acquired in 1855, is one of the first Indian bronzes to have been bought by the Museum.

Descriptive line

Standing figure of the Buddha with Torana

Bibliographic References (Citation, Note/Abstract, NAL no)

T.N.Ramachandran, The Nagapattinam and other Buddhist Bronzes in the Madras Museum, 1954, plate V, Fig.l. and the latest phase of all (plated XIX, fig.l.) Guy, John. 'Buddhist Bronzes of Southern India : Rediscovering a Lost History' in Arts of Asia, volume 30 number 6, Nov-Dec 2000, pp.103-110.

Production Note

Tamilnadu, South India, Vijayanagar period, Late Nagapattinam style.

Subjects depicted

Buddhist

Collection code

IND