2-742-018 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Standing Disciple Mahakasyapa Holding a Cylindrical Reliquary, c. 550. Mahakasyapa, the disciple of Shakyamuni, is presented with closed eyes in an expression of meditative concentration. He is holding a reliquary for the Buddha’s ashes, which symbolize the Buddha entering final spiritual attainment (nirvana) at death. The artistic simplicity exemplifies the spiritual content of this figure.