Artwork Page for Head of Jina

Details / Information for Head of Jina

Head of Jina

c. 150–75 CE

India, Mathura, Kushan period

Medium
red mottled sandstone
Measurements
Overall: 21.6 x 18.3 cm (8 1/2 x 7 3/16 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1962.47
Public Domain
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Location
242B Indian Painting
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Description

The short rows of hair show the new growth after this figure pulled out every lock by hand. Such a radical act demonstrated renunciation from a society that dictated the wearing of long hair to be covered by a turban. Since there is no protrusion at the top of the head, he can be recognized as a Jina, rather than a Buddha or other holy man. His slight smile and placid alert gaze communicate the power, bliss, and wisdom of one who has reached a state of pure knowing and liberation from delusions.
A red mottled sandstone sculpture depicts the head of a figure. The stone is reddish-brown with light tan speckles. Heavy-lidded eyes look downward below arched eyebrows and a circular forehead protrusion. The lips are set in a straight line. Rows of concentric curls are carved across the rounded head, and elongated earlobes extend beside the jaw. The sculpture is shown from the front against a neutral gray background.

Head of Jina

c. 150–75 CE

India, Mathura, Kushan period

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