Sri Lanka: The 5th century CE Aukana Buddha, near Kekirawa, North Central Province

The 12m-high Aukana Buddha is thought to date from the 5th century CE. Hewn from the solid rock (it is still joined at the back to the cliff behind it) this is perhaps the single most elegant Buddha image in Sri Lanka. The Buddha is carved in the asisa mudra pose, a variation of the abhaya mudra, signifying blessing. Aukana means ‘sun eating’.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia