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Q2 (IAS/2026) History & Culture › Art & Architecture Official Key

What does an empty seat represent in early Buddhist iconography?

Result
Your answer: —  ·  Correct: A

Explanation

In early Buddhist art (the aniconic phase), sculptors did not depict the Buddha in human form. Instead, they used various symbols to represent his presence and the major events of his life:

  • Empty Seat: Indicates the meditation of the Buddha and his attainment of enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
  • Stupa: Represents the Mahaparinibbana (the passing away or final nirvana of the Buddha).
  • Wheel (Dharmachakra): Represents the First Sermon delivered by the Buddha at Sarnath (Dharmachakrapravartana).
  • Horse (often riderless): Represents Mahabhinishkramana (the Great Departure or renunciation).

Therefore, the empty seat specifically symbolises the meditation of the Buddha.

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