Dipankara Jataka (The Story of the Ascetic Megha and the Buddha Dipankara)

Dipankara Jataka (The Story of the Ascetic Megha and the Buddha Dipankara)

Dipankara Jataka (The Story of the Ascetic Megha and the Buddha Dipankara). Culture: Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara, Swat Valley). Dimensions: H. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm); W. 8 3/8 in. (21.3 cm); D. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm). Date: ca. 2nd century. In this panel the ascetic Megha (the Buddha Shakyamuni in a past life) appears three times: first, standing before the Buddha Dipankara throwing flowers; second, prostrate before the Buddha spreading his matted locks over mud; and third, flying in the upper left of the panel in a gesture of veneration. This story is the critical beginning of the Gandharan narrative cycle, as the Buddha Dipankara predicts that in a future life Megha will reach enlightenment and become the Buddha Shakyamuni.

Schist with gold leaf

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA

Album / Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY

Model: No - Property: No
Rights questions?

3980 x 3982 px | 45.3 MB

33.7 x 33.7 cm | 13.3 x 13.3 in (300 dpi)