Description
Mahakasyapa, the disciple of Shakyamuni, is presented with closed eyes in an expression of meditative concentration. He is holding a reliquary for the Buddha’s ashes, which symbolize the Buddha entering final spiritual attainment (nirvana) at death. The artistic simplicity exemplifies the spiritual content of this figure.
Provenance
Edgar Worch [1880–1972], Paris, France; Victor Goloubew [1878–1945], Paris, France (by 1913–?); (Étude Couturier et Nicolay, Hôtel Drouot sale, November 10, 1972, Paris, France) (November 10, 1972); (Heim Gallery, Paris, France, sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art) (1972); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (1972–)
Accession Number
1972.166
Medium
limestone with traces of pigment
Dimensions
Overall: 116 x 33 x 25 cm (45 11/16 x 13 x 9 13/16 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Credit Line
Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund
