Lot 71
South Asia, India or Sri Lanka, ca. 2nd to 5th century CE. A stunning translucent rock crystal carved into the sacred talisman known as Buddhapada or Sri Pada, the divine footprint, inlaid with silver bezels containing a ruby. The quartz stone is hand carved into a square with a flat and convex face- the forward convex side is then relief carved with a pair of stylized feet- the heels and toes string cut to create some detail. At the center of the left foot is a beaded silver bezel containing a cabochon ruby- in a pale pink hue. Footprints like these are highly symbolic of Buddha's earthen origins and his eventual ascension to enlightenment. It is a reminder to his followers to practice the patience and spiritual fortitude necessary for facing any of life's challenges. This amulet is palm sized, perfect for holding while meditating and would be a stunning devotional piece on an altar! Size: 3" L x 0.5" W x 2.75" H (7.6 cm x 1.3 cm x 7 cm); 4.5" H (11.4 cm) on included custom stand; silver quality: 64.82% to 67.91%
The Sri Pada (Sripada or Shripada) is a natural rock formation located on Adam's Peak, a mountain in Sri Lanka, a sacred site to followers of Hinduism and Buddhism. The indented rock is believed to be the footprint of either Shiva or Buddha, and Christians and Muslims would later attribute this footprint to Saint Thomas or Adam. Vishnupad Temple is a similar site in Northern India with a footprint attributed to Vishnu, and throughout India and southeast Asia these sacred footprints are a popular motif which is often cast into metal amulets or pendants- this palm sized quartz example is very unusual! Rock crystal is the purest most transparent form of quartz and revered in the Buddhist world for its ability to transmit light, a symbol of purity.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, 1960-2000
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#170952
- Condition: Stable fissures inside the quartz matrix with minor nicks and abrasions to surface. Loss to silver bezel on right foot and missing ruby. Left foot bezel and ruby are intact. Mounted on a modern felt stand. Rare item.
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