Pyu Terracotta Votive Tablet
Style
Pyu Buddhist art, depicting the Buddhas of the Three Periods (Trīkāla Buddha): Kassapa of the past, Gautama of the present, and Maitreya of the future. The triad symbolises the continuity of Buddhist enlightenment across the cycles of cosmic time. The figures are presented on a distinctive double-lotus throne (viśvapadmasana), reflecting strong early Pala artistic influence. The rounded physiognomy, hierarchical composition and lotus pedestal demonstrate the transmission of Buddhist artistic traditions from eastern India into Myanmar.
Period
Pyu period, Myanmar, likely 9th–11th century. The Pyu established major city-states including Sri Ksetra, Beikthano and Halin from around the 2nd century BCE. Although Pyu political power declined following the Nanzhao invasions of the 9th century, Pyu artistic traditions continued under Nanzhao and the emerging Burman polity of Pagan. Votive tablets continued to be produced into the reign of King Anawrahta (r. 1044–1077), making this work an important example of the transitional period between Pyu and early Bagan Buddhist art.
Material
Terracotta (fired clay), moulded as a Buddhist votive tablet.
Size
8 cm high
Provenance
Private English collection
Condition
Not broken, natural erosion