Nepalese Seated Figure of Sakyamuni Buddha

One hand reaches down and touches the earth. That is his whole reply.

This seated figure of Sakyamuni Buddha comes from Nepal and dates to the early 20th century, made of copper with silver carving. Sakyamuni is the historical Buddha, and images like this one served Buddhist devotion in temples and homes. The lowered hand recalls the moment of his enlightenment, when he called the earth to witness. Silver robes, worked with roundels and scrolling patterns, cross a bare copper shoulder. Tight curls rise to a topknot, and a lotus base carries the figure. Eleven inches high.

A small hand, making a very large point.