THAI
Buddha calling the Earth to witness
(18th century-20th century)

Medium
silver, silver alloy, brass

Measurements
14.4 × 9.1 × 5.5 cm

Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of Amitabhaka, 1979

Gallery location
Level 1, NGV International

About this work

This seated Buddha displays the ‘calling the earth to witness’ gesture (bhumisparsha mudra). This hand gesture made by Buddha Shakyamuni calls on the earth goddess, to witness his right to Enlightenment after overcoming a series of temptations sent by the demon Mara, God of Death and Desire while meditating beneath a bodhi (enlightenment) tree.

Artwork Details

Place/s of Execution
North Thailand, Thailand

Accession Number
AS2-1979

Department
Asian Art

Physical description
Buddha seated in 'earth touching' position.

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THAI Buddha calling the Earth to witness (18th century-20th century)

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THAI
Buddha calling the Earth to witness
(18th century-20th century)