Polychrome Stone Seated Buddha

This carved stone figure depicts the historical Buddha, known also as Shaka, Shakyamuni, or Siddhartha Gautama. Seated in meditation with legs crossed in diamond position, the Buddha embodies virtues of wisdom and composure. His right hand is held up in prana mudra, a gesture to awaken the vital life force dormant within. His left hand is held towards the ground in bhumisparsha mudra, to call the earth as witness to his enlightenment. Traces of gold leaf and red and green pigments indicate that the stone figure was originally lavished with vibrant color.