A
standing Shakyamuni surrounded by a flaming mandorla on which can be seen dakinis
supporting a stupa. The historic Buddha stands on a lotus throne with downward
turning petals, a sign of the fully opened Mind of Bliss. The Buddha’s countenance
is serene as he offers the varada mudra, the gesture of giving with his left hand,
his right is in the abaya mudra of protection. Much of the gold leaf is in place,
illuminating the flames and the simple robes of the figure.
Black
Chlorite is a type of marble, harder than alabaster but similar in the working.
Hard and close grained, the surface of black chlorite retains its polish with
an almost unctuous sheen.