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Standing Buddha

Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Xuande mark and period (1426–35)
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 216
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.
This Buddha statue stands out among Ming Buddhist bronzes thanks to its impressive size and the U-shaped folds of its robes, a style originating in ancient Indian sculpture. According to legend, King Udayana of India (ca. 6th century BCE) commissioned the first image of the Buddha. For centuries, Chinese Buddhists regarded this legendary image as a source of power. Aware of practices of copying this sought-after depiction, emperors of the early Ming dynasty commissioned bronze statues like this example for major temples.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 明宣德 銅鎏金釋迦摩尼佛立像
  • Title: Standing Buddha
  • Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Xuande mark and period (1426–35)
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Gilt copper alloy
  • Dimensions: H. 25 in. (63.5 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by Musée Cernuschi, Musée des Arts de l'Asie de la Ville de Paris
  • Rights and Reproduction: Photograph CCO Paris Musées / Musée Cernuschi, Musée des Arts de l’Asie de la Ville de Paris
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art