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Thu: 1–8 PM
Fri–Mon: 10 AM–5 PM
Tue–Wed: Closed
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200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
415.581.3500
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Masterpieces
Detail image of the Buddha

The Buddha triumphing over Mara

This rare 10th-century stone sculpture from India shows us the Buddha on the threshold of achieving enlightenment.

The Buddha triumphing over Mara

850–950
India; probably Kurkihar, Bihar state
Basalt
The Avery Brundage Collection, B60S598

 

 

 

The Buddha on the Threshold of Enlightenment

This rare 1,000-year-old stone sculpture depicts the Buddha sitting under the Bodhi tree on the verge of enlightenment. It captures the most important moment in the Buddha’s life and in the Buddhist belief system. Finely carved, it has two important inscriptions, one related to the religious nature of the sculpture and the other to its patron.

Explore the symbolic details of this 10th-century stone Buddha with Wattis Senior Curator of South and Southeast Asian Art Dr. Forrest McGill (3:05 mins).
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7 Photos
See detailed images of the Buddha triumphing over Mara.
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The twisted garland of beads behind the Buddha’s head represents his halo, a symbol of radiance.
This earth-touching gesture memorializes the victory of the Buddha-to-be over the demon Mara.
Associated with regality, strength and power, the lion is one of Buddhism’s most powerful symbols.
Branches of heart-shaped leaves indicate the sacred bodhi tree, under which Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.
Side view of a carved figure of a seated Buddha.
Side view of a carved figure of a seated Buddha.
Detail view of the Buddha's head and shoulders.
Detailed view of the Buddha's right hand touching the ground.
Detailed view of lions standing beneath the platform the Buddha sits on.
The twisted garland of beads behind the Buddha’s head represents his halo, a symbol of radiance.
This earth-touching gesture memorializes the victory of the Buddha-to-be over the demon Mara.
Associated with regality, strength and power, the lion is one of Buddhism’s most powerful symbols.
Branches of heart-shaped leaves indicate the sacred bodhi tree, under which Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.

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