Artwork preview

Portable Shrine with the Buddha Shakyamuni Preaching his First Sermon

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

A sculpture depicts three figures. The central figure sits cross-legged on the left side, wearing a crown and draped in a robe. The figure's right hand is in its lap, palm up, while the left hand rests on its knee. The figure on the right sits cross-legged, slightly smaller than the central figure, and appears to be listening to the central figure. A third, partially visible figure is carved into the background behind the central figure. The sculpture has a semicircular shape at the top and a flat base with a decorative border. The figures are crafted from a dark green material, possibly stone or metal, with visible signs of aging and wear. The background of the image is plain gray.

Artwork Details

Date
5th–6th century
Medium
Phyllitic green schist
Culture
Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara)
Dimensions
539 × 625 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette