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
Museum record:
View original
Palette