Footed Bowl with Scenes from the Gauttila Jataka

Art Historical Context

This elegant footed bowl, crafted from copper alloy in southern India—likely Andhra Pradesh—around the 5th–6th century, exemplifies the Andhra period's masterful metalwork. Standing 8¼ inches tall and 8¾ inches in, its sturdy pedestal base and wide rim make it both functional for rituals or daily use and a canvas for storytelling. The exterior is adorned with lively repoussé scenes from the *Gauttila Jataka*, a tale from the Buddha's previous lives, featuring dynamic human figures, elephants, horses, and dancers in spirited procession. In the vibrant Buddhist culture of ancient Andhra, Jataka...