Statue

Gilt bronze statue of Vairochana Buddha. This image of Vairochana represents the central Buddha of the Tiantai and Huayan sects. This figure is believed to be the spiritual foundation from which all other Buddhas emanate, and is depicted in samboghakaya form, in the “enjoyment body” taken after full spiritual awakening. The supreme enlightenment of all the Buddhas is represented here by the hand gesture, called uttarabodhi mudra. Figure is of heroic size seated cross-legged upon a lotus throne which has four rows of petals. The soles of the feet are turned upward and the crown has five jewelled peaks each containing a small seated Buddha. Other physical attributes include long ears, a broad forehead, eyes downcast, and a small raised urna.