Dvaravati Buddha images

Dvaravati art - Buddha Image at Wat Na Phramen, Ayutthaya. Notice that the Buddha is seated in the 'European style'. The Buddha displays none of the 'classical' mudras, and His Hands are laying peacefully palms down on His Knees.

The Dvaravati style derived from Indian archetypes such as Amaravati and Gupta styles and were integrated with local art. Dvaravati art and images went roughly through three stages: In the initial stage, there was heave Indian influence, later on the art became more independent locally, and still later influence of Khmer art is visible.

So, initially the faces depicted would resemble Indian sculptures. Later on, influenced by local styles, the aureole would appear in a lotus bud shape or orb over the cranial protuberance. Large hair curls are visible, and the eyebrows would resemble a crows wings curve, like a flying bird. Protuding eyes, with flat nose and thick lips are common. Standing Buddha images performing the Vitarka (Preaching) posture, with robes hanging to mid shin level (see example). In sitting images, a short mantle is placed over the left shoulder. Khmer influence became visible later on with a more square face and cleft chin.