Section of a Coping Rail

c. 150 BCE
Overall: 30.5 x 122 cm (12 x 48 1/16 in.)
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Location: not on view

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Description

A coping rail is the top portion of a fence that connects the upright posts. Here, an undulating lotus rhizome blossoms with jewelry, and in the spaces between are scenes from two of the Buddha's past lives. At the left, a man eats a lizard, and then lies about its running off (Godha Jataka); at the right an ascetic performs a Vedic fire sacrifice (possibly the Rajovada Jataka).
Section of a Coping Rail

Section of a Coping Rail

c. 150 BCE

India, Madhya Pradesh, Bharhut, Shunga period

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