Jina Rishabhanatha

This sandstone sculpture shows the figure of the Jina Rishabhanatha. He was the first ‘tirthankara’ (one of the founders) of the Jain religious community. This figure has long hair, tucked behind the ears and falling on his shoulders. This feature usually only appears in depictions of Rishabhanatha.

Many details confirm his status. The wheel of law ('dharmachakra') at the centre of the throne is a emblem of his role as a Jina (salvation-teacher). He sits in meditation pose framed by an elaborate open-work nimbus or halo. The throne is supported by lions, with standing figures of ‘chauri’ (fly-whisk) bearers on each side. Above, two celestial garland-bearers venerate him and a celestial drummer sits on the honorific triple-umbrella.