A Note on the Crowned Buddha in Bharat Kala Bhavan
By Lalit Kumar
Summary
Focusing on a unique sculpture of the Buddha wearing a crown in the collection of Bharat Kala Bhavan, this note describes the iconography and stylistic features that distinguish it from more common representations of the Buddha as a simple ascetic. The author analyses the workmanship, posture and facial expression, and compares the crowned Buddha motif with similar depictions from Gandhara, Mathura and Southeast Asia. The article discusses possible symbolic meanings, such as the Buddha’s identification with a universal monarch (cakravartin), and suggests a probable date and regional provenance for the piece based on stylistic parallels. By situating the sculpture within broader Buddhist artistic traditions, the note contributes to understanding variations in the visual culture of Buddhism.
Conclusion
The note concludes that the crowned Buddha from Bharat Kala Bhavan exemplifies an important iconographic variant that bridges royal and spiritual symbolism. Its study enriches appreciation of regional diversity in Buddhist art and underscores the interpretive possibilities of the crowned Buddha image.