Early Qing Dynasty
Venerable Ananda Statue

 
      This gilt-alloy statue of Venerable Ananda was crafted in the early Qing dynasty; it is a treasure that dates back about 300 years. This statue is handsome and majestic; the body radiates a golden glow, bringing great joy to those who see it.

      Among Buddha’s Ten Principal Disciples, Venerable Ananda is known as “The Disciple Who Heard Much.” Displaying the great compassion of a bodhisattva, Venerable Ananda spread Buddha’s teachings far and wide, and was later honored with the title “The Second Patriarch.”  

      Bodhisattva Manjusri once spoke of Venerable Ananda: “A face like a full moon in autumn, and eyes like pure lotus flowers, Ananda is preeminent in receiving the Buddha’s teachings, like a great ocean that flows into his mind.”