Untitled

Unknown

late 3rd century CE · Limestone · Asian Art

This panel depicts the stepped capital of a tall commemorative pillar surmounted by the Buddhist wheel of the law (Dharma-wheel), a revered element of early Andhra Buddhist monasteries and the principal metaphor of the Buddha’s teachings (Dharma). The wheel is supported by two lions. Its radiating spokes are framed by a ring of lotus petals, and garlands hang from the capital beneath in celebration of the Buddha’s teachings. The panel probably formed the upper section of a slender pilaster decorating the platform (ayaka) that projected from the stupa. A vertical tenon joint on its rough-hewn reverse enabled it to be locked into place between two larger panels.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 3rd century CE

Medium

Limestone

Culture

India, probably Ghantasala, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Fletcher and Rogers Funds, by exchange, 2008