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Buddha Shakyamuni with Kneeling Worshippers

14th-15th century

Myanmar

Gilt copper alloy

H. 16 x W. 14 3/4 in. (40.6 x 37.5 cm)

Asia Society, New York: Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, 1979.91a-c

Provenance

John D. Rockefeller 3rd, New York, NY; acquired from J. J. Klejman, New York, NY in 1969.

The Asia Society, New York, NY, bequest of John D. Rockefeller 3rd, New York, NY, 1979.

Licensing inquiries

According to tradition, Buddha Shakyamuni became enlightened at the age of 35 after a lengthy meditation in which he battled the god of death and desire, Mara. The earth-touching gesture (bhumisparsha mudra) performed by this image recalls the moment when, challenged by Mara regarding his right to achieve enlightenment, the Buddha reaches his right hand down to call the earth to bear witness to his entitlement. According to one legend, the earth, represented here below Shakyamuni, wrung the waters of the earth from her hair and swept away Mara and his armies. The kneeling devotees who offer flowers to the Buddha are two of his most important disciples, Mogallana and Shariputra. Their presence symbolizes the importance of using skillful means and knowledge in the search for enlightenment.