Some of the most elegant Buddhist sculptures in the world are located in Myanmar. The spread of the religion of Buddhism in Myanmar is well documented in the history books. The religion has a tremendous influence on the socio-cultural scenario of the country. Myanmar, now known as Burma, is one of the Asian countries visited by a significant contingent of foreign travelers. The Buddhist sculpture in Myanmar serves as one of the major tourist attractions in the country. This page deals with information on the Buddhist sculpture in Myanmar.
Origin and history of Buddhism in Myanmar
The beginning of the religion of Buddhism in Myanmar can be traced back to the 1st century CE period. But the evidence of Buddhist art in the country that has been discovered over the years belongs to the period succeeding the 11th century. Various forms of the religion have been practiced in Myanmar. Theravada Buddhism became the popular religion in Myanmar under the rule of King Anawrahta during the early 11 century period. He was also responsible for the unification of the country.
Buddha Shakyamuni
Buddha Shakyamuni is a Buddhist sculpture in Myanmar that is immensely popular and revered by both the locals and visitors in the region. The sculpture dates back to the 14-15th century period and is made of gilt copper alloy. The Buddha Shakyamuni sculpture is 16 inches tall and more than 14 inches wide.
The sculpture also depicts 2 of Buddha’s most important disciples, Mogallana and Shariputra, kneeling before the Enlightened One.
The sculpture shows Buddha in the Bhumisparsha mudra. It is said that Buddha obtained enlightenment after years of meditation. He had to overcome plenty of challenges to become the Enlightened One. It is believed that Buddha had to fight a battle against Mara, the god of death and desire during his meditative stage. He called upon the powers of the earth to overcome the challenge posed by Mara. The Buddhist sculpture in Myanmar, Buddha Shakyamuni, tells the story of the battle between Mara and Buddha.
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Seated Buddha
The Seated Buddha is another popular Buddhist sculpture in Myanmar. The pyrophyllite sculpture is believed to have been created sometime during the 11-12th century. The Seated Buddha sculpture boasts of a height of more than 7 inches. This sculpture also shows Buddha in the Bhumisparsha mudra. You would also find several other sculptures and images which depict other stages in the life of the Enlightened One.
Buddhistsculptures.com is the site that offers information packed pages on Buddhist sculptures.
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