Shakyamuni Buddha Calling the Earth to Witness by Anonymous

Shakyamuni Buddha Calling the Earth to Witness c. 18th century

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bronze, sculpture

sculpture

asian-art

bronze

figuration

sculpture

Dimensions: 28 x 21 x 14 1/2 in. (71.12 x 53.34 x 36.83 cm)

This bronze sculpture presents Shakyamuni Buddha in a moment of profound significance. His right hand gestures towards the earth, a symbolic act of calling upon the Earth Goddess to witness his enlightenment. This gesture, known as the bhumisparsha mudra, is central to Buddhist iconography. The roots of this motif can be traced back to ancient Indian art, yet it resonates across cultures and centuries. Consider the many depictions of rulers throughout history; the raised hand is a familiar symbol of power and affirmation. But in this instance, it speaks not of worldly authority but of spiritual awakening. The serene expression and closed eyes convey a deep inner peace, inviting viewers into a contemplative space. It is a powerful depiction of inner transformation. The bhumisparsha mudra, therefore, echoes through time, a testament to humanity’s enduring quest for meaning.

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minneapolisinstituteofart over 1 year ago

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Holding his left hand palm up in his lap and extending his right hand to touch the ground before him, this Burmese image of the historical buddha, Shakyamuni, makes a gesture known as bhumisparsha-mudra, or “calling the earth to witness.” It is a depiction of the moment immediately after his enlightenment. While meditating, the Buddha was bombarded by an army of demons sent by Mara, but he was able to overcome these distractions and achieve enlightenment. Mara tried to claim the Buddha’s enlightenment as his own, with the demon hoards as his witnesses, but the Buddha, reaching out his right hand to touch the ground before him, called upon the earth itself to bear witness to this achievement. Depictions of this moment in the Buddha’s life are particularly common in Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Thailand, whereas they are rarely seen in East Asian cultures like China and Japan.