Model of the Mahabodhi Temple, eastern India, probably Bodhgaya, c. 11th century, stone (serpentinite), 17.5 x 8.9 x 10.2 cm (Rubin Museum of Art). A conversation with Dr. Elena Pakhoutova, Senior Curator, Rubin Museum of Art and Dr. Beth Harris.
Rubin Museum senior curator Dr. Elena Pakhoutova and Smarthistory’s Dr. Beth Harris explore a model of the most important temple in the Buddhist world. The Mahabodhi Temple, located in Bodhgaya, India, is where the Buddha attained awakening while sitting under the bodhi tree.
The Rubin Museum of Art has teamed up with Smarthistory to bring you an ‘up-close’ look at select objects from the Rubin’s preeminent collection of Himalayan art. Featuring conversations with senior curators and close-looking at art, this video series is an accessible introduction to the art and material culture of the Tibetan, Himalayan, and Inner Asian regions. Learn about the living traditions and art-making practices of the Himalayas from the past to today.
Learn more about the Mahabodhi Temple on Project Himalayan Art, a resource from the Rubin for learning about Himalayan, Tibetan, and Inner Asian art and cultures:
https://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/essays/mahabodhi-temple-model/
https://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/related/mahabodhi-temple-at-bodhgaya-india/
https://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/themes/sites-architecture/
About the Rubin
The Rubin is a global museum dedicated to sharing Himalayan art through a dynamic digital platform, participatory experiences, exhibitions, and partnerships. Inspired and informed by Himalayan art, the Rubin invites people to contemplate the human experience and deepen connections with the world around them in order to expand awareness, enhance well-being, and cultivate compassion.
View the Himalayan Art Up Close series: www.youtube.com/playlist
Subscribe to the Rubin Museum YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@rubinmuseum
Images: Model of the Mahabodhi Temple; eastern India, probably Bodhgaya; ca. 11th century; stone (serpentinite); Rubin Museum of Art; purchased with funds from Ann and Matt Nimetz and Rubin Museum of Art; C2019.2.2 (HAR 68417)
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