Untitled

Unknown

9th century · Brass · Asian Art

The Buddha is usually depicted in a monk’s simple garments; however, when he wears rich jewelry and a crown, he evokes the special form of Buddha as a cakravartin, or universal monarch. In Kashmir this form also recalls the splendor of the Buddha in heaven, where he reveals himself to the bodhisattvas. Both the high tripartite diadem and tasseled cape reflect Central Asian influence on Kashmiri Buddhist art of this period.

Artist

Unknown

Date

9th century

Medium

Brass

Culture

India, Ancient kingdom of Kashmir

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Ben Heller, 1970