Seated Buddha Calling the Earth to Witness
16th century
Physical Qualities
Gilt copper alloy with blue and red pigment, 9 1/2 x 6 1/2 x 6 1/2 in. (24.1 x 16.5 x 16.5 cm.)
Credit Line
Frank J. and Elizabeth L. Goodnow Collection
Object Number
1942.70.185
This sculpture illustrates the moment when, after a long period of meditation, Siddhartha Gautama reached down to touch the ground with his right hand, calling the earth to witness his enlightenment and transformation into the Buddha Sakyamuni.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by bequest to the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, 1942; Goodnow Collection, Baltimore; probably acquired by Elizabeth Goodnow in China, c. 1912-1913
Frances Klapthor, BMA, "The Devotional Art of Tibet," May 14, 2007-January 20, 2008.
