Untitled

Unknown

ca. 2nd century · Schist with gold leaf · Asian Art

In this panel the ascetic Megha (the Buddha Shakyamuni in a past life) appears three times: first, standing before the Buddha Dipankara throwing flowers; second, prostrate before the Buddha spreading his matted locks over mud; and third, flying in the upper left of the panel in a gesture of veneration. This story is the critical beginning of the Gandharan narrative cycle, as the Buddha Dipankara predicts that in a future life Megha will reach enlightenment and become the Buddha Shakyamuni.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 2nd century

Medium

Schist with gold leaf

Culture

Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara, Swat Valley)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Alan D. Wolfe, in memory of Samuel Eilenberg, 1998