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Enthroned Buddha Preaching

Central Thailand

first half of the 7th century

Not on view

This diminutive Buddha appears to be engaged in animated exposition, and his raised right hand (now damaged) may have indicated the teaching gesture (vitarkamudra). A significant number of terracottas were recovered during the excavation of site 40 at Khu Bua in 1962. The Buddha’s seated posture (bhadrasana) has its origins in the rock-cut cave depictions of western India and was disseminated to China and Southeast Asia, where it is associated with auspiciousness and material wealth. Its widespread appearance in Southeast Asia points to the circulation of portable Indian models, most likely transported by Buddhist missionary monks.

cat. no. 110

Enthroned Buddha Preaching, Terracotta, Central Thailand — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Enthroned Buddha Preaching, Terracotta, Central Thailand

Enthroned Buddha Preaching, Terracotta, Central Thailand

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Enthroned Buddha Preaching

Date: first half of the 7th century

Culture: Central Thailand

Medium: Terracotta

Dimensions: H. 16 1/8 in. (41 cm); W. 6 11/16 in. (17 cm); D. 4 3/4 in. (12 cm)

Classification: Sculpture

Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Bangkok (441/2504 [129/1])

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