The figure is shown seated with one knee raised with right hand rested on the knee, leaning forward. The emaciated and naked body is finely detailed with skeletal ribs, shoulder blades and spine. The face is shown with calm expression suggestive of mediation, the lower body dressed in robe wrapped loosely to reveal the skeletal legs. The stone is of white tone with russet and reddish veining.

H: 2 3/4 in (7 cm) W: 2 1/4 in (5.8 cm)

In his search for the truth, Shakyamuni, the historic Buddha, tried various methods of meditation before he finally achieved enlightenment under the bodhi tree. The current piece depicts him during the time when he practiced austerities on the snowy mountain and starved himself until he was skeletal in appearance.Shakyamuni wears the simple garment of a monk, and his exposed chest reveals his ribs.