95 - EARLY BRONZE GANDHARA BUDDHA IN TEACHING MUDRA

EARLY BRONZE GANDHARA BUDDHA IN TEACHING MUDRA Dimensions: Height 26,5 cm Wide 18 cm Depth 12 cm without base Weight: 4784 grams with base Seated cross-legged on a low integral support, the Buddha raises his right hand before the chest with thumb and finger brought together, while the other hand opens beneath it. His gently smiling face is marked by lowered eyes, elongated earlobes and a pronounced topknot; the robe descends in broad, rounded folds across the shoulders and lap. Contrasting dark and pale areas on the surface accentuate the modelling. The sculpture is presented on a separate stepped black display base, whose weight is included in the recorded measurement. The gesture is associated with the communication of the Buddhist teaching, or Dharma, and directs attention to the Buddha not simply as an enlightened being but as a teacher. The figure's expressive drapery and composed bearing reflect the distinctive visual language of Gandharan Buddhist sculpture. Its open hands and composed expression remain the focus of the devotional image.