In the study of Buddhist sculpture, art historians found it essential to delve into the hagiographies of the Buddha. These biographical accounts provided valuable insights into the life and teachings of the Buddha. According to these hagiographies, the Buddha attained enlightenment during his meditation beneath a tree.

Interestingly, in early Buddhist sculptures, the representation of the Buddha did not take a conventional human form. Rather, sculptors opted to depict his presence through various symbolic elements and motifs. These symbols conveyed the essence of the Buddha's enlightenment and teachings, adding a unique and profound dimension to the artistry of the sculptures.

Which of the following symbol was meant to indicate the 'meditation' of the Buddha?

Empty seat

The correct answer is Option 2 - Empty seat

The empty seat was meant to indicate the meditation of the Buddha.

Art historians had to acquire familiarity with hagiographies of the Buddha in order to understand Buddhist sculpture. According to hagiographies, the Buddha attained enlightenment while meditating under a tree. Many early sculptors did not show the Buddha in human form – instead, they showed his presence through symbols. The empty seat was meant to indicate the meditation of the Buddha, and the stupa was meant to represent the mahaparinibbana. Another frequently used symbol was the wheel. This stood for the first sermon of the Buddha, delivered at Sarnath. As is obvious, such sculptures cannot be understood literally – for instance, the tree does not stand simply for a tree, but symbolises an event in the life of the Buddha. In order to understand such symbols, historians have to familiarise themselves with the traditions of those who produced these works of art.