Shakyamuni

This image of Shakyamuni, the Buddha, or “awakened one,” who lived during the 500s or 400s BCE, is carved from one piece of wood. The distinctive pattern of thick, raised garment folds is characteristic of Japanese Buddhist sculpture of the 800s and 900s. Shakyamuni’s elongated ears and curled hair are among the physical attributes described in sacred texts that distinguish him as a Buddha.