Although Shakyamuni Buddha reached enlightenment, he postponed his entrance into nirvana so that he could remain on earth to assist others in their quest for truth. After many years of teaching his new doctrine to a growing number of followers, Shakyamuni chose to depart the earth. Surrounded by mourning disciples, the Buddha is depicted reclining on a couch after his death. This particular image of the Buddha has been rubbed smooth by years of worship.
Catalogue Description:
A fine fragment from a relief, depicting the Parinivana of the Buddha, the body lying on a cushioned couch with elaborate legs and a richly decorated cloth turned back at the bottom corners; six figures standing around, possibly monks and the Malla chieftains; one at each end of the couch, three behind, the two remaining undamaged gazing at the body, and one in front, probably Subhadra. Thick foliage of Sal trees above.
Condition: Second figure from left (viewer's) is badly worn. Upper pare of Buddha figure very worn. Two figures at left and right ends of couch are chipped in areas; Lower area of relief is chipped.
