[Chapter 7] Buddha In The Gupta Era

The first thing many people notice when studying Gupta art is how sublime it appears. Buddha is an example of Gupta art. The statue of the sitting Buddha is often depicted with its eyes half shut and relaxed facial features showing meditation. The reason behind this spiritual and calm art work is due to the rise of the Gupta Era. This era existed in the fourth and sixth century. When India was no longer under the Roman influence, they were able to develop their own form of art that focused on tranquility and spirituality. Some statues of Buddha have different meanings depending on the position of the hands. The body underneath the robe that Buddha wears is intended to be pleasing to the Indian eye and highly valued in Indian culture which creates prana. The placement and structure of the hands of Buddha, or mudra, are very symbolic. If Buddha`s right hand is stretching forward this conveys reassurance to the admirer.

If Buddha`s left hand is down to his side this conveys charity and wishes being met. When the hands make a circle with the forefinger and thumb, while palms facing up and on Buddha`s lap, this symbolizes teaching and is called the dharmachakra mudra. The dharmachakra mudra relates to Buddha`s teaching at Deer Park. The most famous statue of Buddha known to westerners is called the dhyana mudra. This mudra symbolizes mediation and harmony along with the path to enlightenment. Due toBuddha’s vast influential reach, it is a huge factor in identifying the Gupta Era.