Object Number: VRM1472

Dimensions: 98.7 x 52.5 cm

Material: Basalt

Find Location: Itahar, Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, India

Date: 9th-10th Century CE

Jainism spread widely across South Asia during the Early Historic period (c.600-200 BCE) alongside Buddhism, coming to represent an influential community. Known for its religious tolerance, the Pala dynasty promoted many different religions and supported Jainism, in addition to Buddhist and Brahmanical traditions. The teachings of Jainism were shared by Mahavira, a historical figure who was known as a Tirthankara or ‘fordmaker’ - a person who has successfully passed through the stream of rebirths and has created a path for others to follow.

Mahavira was one of the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism, all of whom are represented on this sculptural piece of black basalt. The large central figure on the sculpture is the first Tirthankara – Risahabhanatha. He is depicted with long flowing hair, here braided upwards with a bull on the pedestal below, which is his emblem. The other 23 Tirthankaras that surround him are depicted in a very similar manner but less ornately. They are placed within niches that represent shrines and are seated in the lotus position.

Unlike the depictions of rich cloth and ornate jewellery found on contemporary sculptures of the Brahmanical tradition, the Tirthankaras are unclothed, symbolising their detachment and freedom from worldly concerns. While many of the contemporary terracottas at the great Pala temple of Paharpur depict bejewelled warriors, this sculpture reminds us of South Asia’s long tradition of practicing and promoting renunciation and non-violence.