Head of Jina
Unknown Artist
c. 150–75 CE
Medium
red mottled sandstone
Dimensions
{"overall":{"height":0.216,"width":0.183}}
Classification
Sculpture
Department
Indian and Southeast Asian Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
Accession Number
1962.47
About this artwork
The short rows of hair show the new growth after this figure pulled out every lock by hand. Such a radical act demonstrated renunciation from a society that dictated the wearing of long hair to be covered by a turban. Since there is no protrusion at the top of the head, he can be recognized as a Jina, rather than a Buddha or other holy man. His slight smile and placid alert gaze communicate the power, bliss, and wisdom of one who has reached a state of pure knowing and liberation from delusions.