Explanation

Early Buddhist art at Sanchi, Bharhut and Amaravati generally followed an aniconic tradition, in which the Buddha was represented through symbols rather than in human form. Different symbols were used to depict important events from his life.

– Meditation/Awakening — Empty Seat: The Empty Seat (Vajrasana/Bodhimanda), often shown beneath the Bodhi tree or a parasol, represents the Buddha’s meditation and awakening at Bodh Gaya.

– First Sermon — Dharmachakra: The Wheel (Dharmachakra) represents the Buddha’s First Sermon at Sarnath, symbolising the turning of the Wheel of Dharma.

– Mahaparinibbana — Stupa: The Stupa represents the Buddha’s Mahaparinibbana, signifying his physical death and final liberation.

– Mahabhinishkramana — Riderless Horse: The riderless horse (Kanthaka) represents the Buddha’s Great Departure, when Prince Siddhartha left his royal life in search of truth.