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Buddha Preaching

South Asia, probably Sri Lanka

6th century

Not on view

This sculpture is one of two Amaravati-style bronze Buddhas found in Thailand. Both are likely imports from Sri Lanka, where the Amaravati legacy of southern India continued in the monastic workshops of Anuradhapura, the first-millennium capital of Buddhist Sri Lanka. The presence of such imported models had a profound impact on image-making in the western and southern regions of Thailand. The pivotal role of Sri Lanka, both as a hub for long-distance trade and as a recognized custodian of Buddhist values, made it a natural source of inspiration and guidance for newly emerging Buddhist communities.

cat. no. 5

Buddha Preaching, Copper alloy, South Asia, probably Sri Lanka — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Buddha Preaching, Copper alloy, South Asia, probably Sri Lanka

Buddha Preaching, Copper alloy, South Asia, probably Sri Lanka

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

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Buddha Preaching

Date: 6th century

Culture: South Asia, probably Sri Lanka

Medium: Copper alloy

Dimensions: H. 11 1/2 in. (29.2 cm); W. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)

Classification: Sculpture

Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Bangkok, gift of Prince Damrong Rajanubhab (DR1)

Accession Number: SL.2.2014.3.4

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Asian Art at The Met

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world.