Bust of a Bodhisattva Shakyamuni

3rd–4th century
Not on view
Representations of Shakyamuni prior to his enlightenment as a bodhisattva were popular in Gandhara, as they emphasize his high rebirth and potential to become a chakravartin king (universal monarch). It seems likely that such images were also intended to glorify Shakyamuni's great departure from the palace—the moment he leaves the illusory world of desire and attachment to seek enlightenment.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Bust of a Bodhisattva Shakyamuni
  • Date: 3rd–4th century
  • Culture: Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara)
  • Medium: Schist
  • Dimensions: H. 18 1/4 in. (46.4 cm); W. 13 in. (33 cm); D. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Samuel Eilenberg Collection, Ex Coll.: Columbia University, Purchase, Anonymous Gift and Rogers Fund, 1987
  • Object Number: 1987.218.10
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

More Artwork

Research Resources

The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.

To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.

Feedback

We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.