Description: Bust fragment of Buddha sculpture in gilt bronze with organic material inside.

History: Buddha Statue signifies the "Enlightened One," the basic idol of Buddhism. Buddhism conveys the philosophy of self-perfection - its essentials are contained in the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. Buddhism adheres to various "scriptures." Buddhists hold the Pali Canon to be the oldest and most authoritative "scripture." The Four Noble Truths affirm that (i) life is full of suffering (dukkha); (ii) suffering is caused by craving (samudaya); (iii) suffering will cease only when craving ceases (nirodha); and (iv) this can be achieved by following the Noble Eightfold Path. Generally, the Path consists of right views, right aspiration, right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right contemplation. Other Buddhist philosophies include the belief that nothing in life is permanent (anicca), that individual selves do not truly exist (anatta), that all is determined by an impersonal law of moral causation (karma), that reincarnation is an endless cycle of continuous suffering, and that the goal of life is to break out of this cycle by finally extinguishing the flame of life and entering a permanent state of pure nonexistence (nirvana). The Buddha Statue represents a philosophical belief system that's deeply concerned with overcoming suffering. The hope of nirvana is really a hope in finally ending the cycle of suffering in this world. The law of karma can be very rigid and impersonal. Under the Buddhist system of moral cause and effect there is no mercy and no forgiveness. Escape is only possible through a continuous cycle of good deeds and striving for "unattainable" self-perfection.

Provenance: N/A

Dimensions: Weight (Pounds & Ounces) = 0.48 | Height(in) = 4.5 | Width(in) = 3.25 | Depth(in) = 1.75

Size of Artwork(in): 4.5 x 3.25 x 1.75"

Artist Name: Indian

Medium: Bronze, burnt organic material.

Circa: Unknown

The top of the sculpture's head is missing but the face and right side of his chest and shoulder are intact. Partial gilt remaining to bronzed areas.