This piece has been created showing influences of Indian and Gandharan artistery, Hellenistic execution/portrayal and great simplicity to communicate the story of Buddha to a lay-person.

History of the Object

Wall paintings on Buddha and Buddhist themes are found in many caves in Central Asia as Buddhism became a very important religion in many parts of Central Asia, China, countries of Eastern Asia and South Asia. This is an exquisitely carved wooden panel where the artist has tried to infuse some elements from silk- paintings from Central Asia. The fragment of the wooden panel is showing the Buddha seated on the lotus throne in the posture of Vajrasana and hands in Vyakhyana Mudra (gesture of explanation). On his right, Avalokitesvara is standing on a lotus stand. His right hand is in Abhaya Mudra(gesture of reassurance and safety). He is seen holding a vase filed with the eternal Liquid or Amrit (amrtakalasa). The left portion of the panel is missing and the figures show a Gandharan element in their carving.