Sarnath Sculpture Style

• 07 Apr 2025

Why in News? 

During his visit to Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a brass statue of Buddha in meditation posture, made in the Sarnath style, to King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand. 

• About Sarnath Sculpture: 
  • Origin and Development: 
    • The Sarnath style emerged during the Kushan period and reached its peak during  the Gupta period . 
  • Naming: 
    • This style developed at Sarnath, where Buddha gave  his famous 'Dharmachakra Pravartan' (first sermon) . 
    • As a result, this art style came to be known as  'Sarnath Style' . 
  • Construction Material: 
    • In ancient times, sandstone was mainly used for making statues . But nowadays, metals like brass are also being used along with stone, which has improved the structure and durability of the statues. 
  • Features: 
    • The Buddha statues of Sarnath art express a deep sense of peace and wisdom. 
    • The Buddha idols have slanted eyes and sharp noses, with a gentle smile on their lips. The Sarnath style Buddha has a very gentle face. 
    • The Buddha is depicted seated in the Dharmachakra Mudra (teaching posture), where his hands are in a position to turn the wheel of Dharma and impart teachings. 
    • These statues often depict the “Abhanga Mudra”, with the Buddha's body slightly tilted, giving an impression of movement and beauty. 
    • The halo behind the Buddha statue is often decorated with intricate floral patterns, which further enhance the grandeur and spiritual significance of the statue.