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November 20, 2009

In Pursuit of a Masterpiece

1 – 2 p.m.

Head of a Buddha
Title:Head of a Buddha
Date:8th century
Medium:Limestone
Dimensions:10 1/2 x 8 in. (26.67 x 20.32 cm)
Creation Place:Asia, Cambodia or Thailand
Credit Line:Bequest of Alfred F. Pillsbury
Accession Number:50.46.219
Location:G213
This image of Buddha Shakyamuni conforms closely to the classic style evolved by the early Dvaravati sculptors. The face is square, mouth wide, nose flat and hair curls large. Although the Dvaravati artists borrowed ideas from the idealized sculpture of India, this head demonstrates that facial characteristics of the indigenous population was soon incorporated into their religious art.