Dipankara Jataka (The Story of the Ascetic Megha and the Buddha Dipankara)
In this panel the ascetic Megha (the Buddha Shakyamuni in a past life) appears three times: first, standing before the Buddha Dipankara throwing flowers; second, prostrate before the Buddha spreading his matted locks over mud; and third, flying in the upper left of the panel in a gesture of veneration.
This story is the critical beginning of the Gandharan narrative cycle, as the Buddha Dipankara predicts that in a future life Megha will reach enlightenment and become the Buddha Shakyamuni.
This story is the critical beginning of the Gandharan narrative cycle, as the Buddha Dipankara predicts that in a future life Megha will reach enlightenment and become the Buddha Shakyamuni.
Artwork Details
- Title: Dipankara Jataka (The Story of the Ascetic Megha and the Buddha Dipankara)
- Date: ca. 2nd century
- Culture: Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara, Swat Valley)
- Medium: Schist with gold leaf
- Dimensions: H. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm); W. 8 3/8 in. (21.3 cm); D. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Alan D. Wolfe, in memory of Samuel Eilenberg, 1998
- Object Number: 1998.491
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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1st to mid-2nd century
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ca. 3rd century
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