Minneapolis Institute of Art

Buddha subduing Mara

Date

15th century

Medium

Bronze, enamel

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This sculpture captures the moment of the Buddha’s enlightenment: the defeat of Mara, lord of the realm of desire and cause of human suffering. In a gesture called bhumisparsamudra, his right hand gently calls the earth to witness the momentous occasion. Thai sculptors often forgo the narrative details of the event; instead, they economically convey its essence. The Buddha’s downcast eyes indicate deep meditation, a “lion-like” body resists the armies of temptation, and the face, now free from suffering, radiates bliss. Likely created in central Thailand, the sculpture demonstrates how Thai artists frequently fused regional tastes. Its lotus-cushion throne and broad shoulders reflect developments in the northern Thai kingdom of Lan Na (1200–1700), while the oval head, U-incised chin, heart-shaped hairline, and tubular limbs reflect developments in the southern Sukothai Kingdom (1238–1438). Laos, Thailand, Asia

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