Buddha; China, 20th century

Buddha; China, 20th century
Carved hardstone
Measurements: 41 x 30 x 22 cm.

A sculpture of the Buddha carved from hard stone (possibly zoisite with ruby or a related mineralogical variant) in reddish and garnet tones with natural inclusions. The figure is depicted seated in the classic meditation posture (dhyanasana or padmasana, the lotus position), with crossed legs and feet resting on the thighs. The hands rest in the lap in the sacred gesture of meditation (dhyana mudra), one on top of the other with the palms facing upward, symbolizing inner balance, mental calm, and spiritual enlightenment. The ensemble stands on an oval pedestal carved in the shape of a lotus throne with a double row of petals, from the front of which hangs a ceremonial cloth bearing the sun disk or the wheel of dharma (dharmachakra).

Traditionally, freestanding Buddha images of this type, carved from hard stone, jade, or jasper, not only served an aesthetic or ceremonial function but also played a central role in domestic altars and Buddhist temples. Placed at the center of niches or offering tables, they served as a focal point for worship, the recitation of sutras, and the daily meditation of the devotees.