Buddha Subduing Mara

Place of OriginThailand

DateSukhothai Period (1320-1438)

Dimensions16 × 10 3/4 × 6 1/4 in. (40.6 × 27.3 × 15.9 cm)

MediumBronze.

ClassificationSculpture

Credit LineGift of an anonymous donor

Object number

1991.54

On View

Toledo Museum of Art (2445 Monroe Street), Gallery, 35

Label TextThis Buddha displays the “earth touching gesture” or Bhumisparsa mudra, which symbolizes the historical Buddha—Siddhartha Gautama, or Shakyamuni—attaining full enlightenment (nirvana). The story is one of the most popular and inspiring subjects of Buddhist art. After sitting in meditation under the sacred Bodhi tree, Prince Siddhartha was tempted by the demon king Mara. The Buddha-to-be resisted and touched his right hand to Mother Earth, calling her to witness his rebuff of the demon and asking for the strength to achieve enlightenment. She granted his wish by banishing Mara, thus allowing “Buddha” (meaning “Enlightened One”) to enter his full manifestation.Published ReferencesGroslier, B., The Art of Indochina, Including Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia (from Art of the World Series), New York, 1962, pp. 202-226.

May, Reginald, A Concise History of Buddhist Art in Siam, Cambridge, 1938, pp. 120-135.

Pal, Pratapaditya, The Senuous Immortals, Los Angeles, 1978, pp. 222-224.