Buddha Shakyamuni
c. 1100
Asia: India, Tamil Nadu
Granite
The Norton Simon Foundation
This impressive Buddha sits in the classic meditation posture known as paryankasana, with his hands placed palm side up on the sole of his right foot. This sculpture is from the southern Indian coastal town of Nagapattinam, where Buddhism flourished under the primarily Hindu Chola rulers. A distinctive feature of Nagapattinam Buddhas is their flame-embellished cranial bump (ushnisha), which signifies transcendental knowledge.
Meditative Moments
On March 26, 2020, the Museum shared its first in a series of close-looking meditations using objects from the collections. The meditative moments, led by former manager of youth and family programs Mariko Tu, thoughtfully pair artworks with themed meditations that span diverse topics, from “intention” to acknowledging Mother’s Day. Museum educators had already been incorporating mindfulness and quiet contemplation into their in-person public programs, but this series brought the practice into the digital sphere at a moment when many in our community were seeking ways to connect from afar. In “Breathing Meditation,” Tu invites visitors to pause and replicate the Buddha Shakyamuni’s meditation pose. She then gently guides participants through a calming breath exercise.
