Seated Tirthankara 002

This arch and accompanying Jina exemplify the complexity of Jain architectural decoration and the ascetic serenity of traditional Jina imagery. Jinas are usually portrayed unembellished and in exposed, simple poses, reflecting the belief in nonviolence and the lack of attachment to earthly possessions central to Jain ideals. Although the identity of this Jina is uncertain, it is most likely to be Mahavira, Jina of the current era. With hands in the gesture of meditation, the Jina is depicted cross-legged on a simple throne, adorned only with a diamond-shaped shrivatsa mark on his chest. His transcendental status is indicated by elongated earlobes and cranial bump. The arch features a variety of delicately carved divine beings and creatures: yaksha attendants carrying flywhisks, lions, celestial garland bearers and elephants. The inscription on the base of the Jina’s pedestal dates the work to 1163 CE.