Birth of Buddha


Original Location + Cardinal Points: Nalanda, Bihar,  North India

Present Location: National Museum, Delhi

Date/Period: 9th Century CE (300-1200 BCE-CE (Early Medieval))

Medium: Sculpture

Material: Bronze

Style: Pala

Introduction

The scene depicts the Lumbinivana, symbolised by the branch of a tree, where Maya, wife of the Sakya chief Suddhodana, retired and delivered the child. On the right, Maya is seen holding the branch of the sala tree with her right hand to take support. On her right is Indra, the thousand- eyed Lord of the Gods, identifiable by his conical cap, receiving the newborn child in his palms. Standing between them is the newly born baby, about to take the first seven steps. Dundubhi or the celestial drum with a palm on each side, to announce the birth of Buddha, can be seen above the branch.

Dimensions: H 20.0 x W 11.2 x D

Accession number: Ace. No. 47.49

Credits: National Museum, Delhi

Related

Recommended