Buddha on lotus-shaped pedestal

This standing buddha captures the classical style of the eighth century, which was the most prolific period of Buddhist art during the Unified Silla dynasty. This sculpture is composed of three parts: a lower base, a single-cast lotus pedestal, and the buddha, who is missing the halo that was once anchored to his back. His proportioned body as well as his downcast eyes, defined nose, and long earlobes contribute to his overall solemn expression. Identifying which buddha this image is portraying, whether Amitabha or Shakyamuni, is not possible, as the hand gesture (mudra) of the right hand is not identifiable. Similar examples of buddha sculptures have been excavated in Gyeongju (formerly called Seorabeol), the capital of the Unified Silla dynasty.