H: 18.6 cm

Statues of Shakyamuni Buddha usually come in two basic varieties: sitting and standing posture. In addition, there are a number of mudras, or hand gestures, the five most commonly seen of which are the dhyana mudra, varada mudra, bhumyakramana mudra, dharmachakra mudra, and the fear not mudra. This statue shows Shakyamuni in the lotus position making the bhumyakramana gesture, also known as the overcoming demons mudra. This is the most common way of representing Gautama Buddha’s moment of enlightenment under a sacred fig tree in Bodh Gaya, as well as one of the most important images in Buddhist iconography. The Buddha is dressed in the kasaya, the monk’s robe, and his expression and overall appearance are serene and dignified. He is sitting on a lotus seat, his right hand making the bhumyakramana mudra, and his left placed in the dhyana mudra position. The entire statue is gilded, and the craftsmanship excellent. In particular, the fine adhesive gold coating of the face is very typical of Ming Dynasty style and technique.