Resting Buddha

This gilded wood figure depicts Buddha in a reclining position. The posture is that of Nirvana Buddha, when the historical Buddha experiences his last moments on earth prior to entering nirvana and thereby breaking the cycle of birth, death and reincarnation. According to convention, Buddha lies on his right side, splaying his gown before him, a garment embellished with an intricately patterned border inlaid with bits of hand-cut glass.