Aukana Buddha statue

 

The Aukana Buddha statue is one of the most important statues of the Anuradhapura period. This is considered to be a creation of King Dhatusena who is considered to be a great king who ruled in the 5th century.

It is so named because it is located in the village of Aukana near Kalawewa. This Buddha statue is 38 feet 10 inches high and sits on a lotus pedestal at full height on a rock. The Abhaya seal on the right hand is made to bear the wave of robes on the left. According to the unitary system, the robe has a rhythmic wavy pattern and can be seen sticking to the body.

Scholars believe that this represents the seal of Abhaya, which also reflects the Deepankara Buddha.

The features found in the Amaravathi Buddha statues which show the excellence in the art of ancient India can be seen in the Aukana Buddha statue as well.

Prof. Senarath Paranavithana is of the opinion that this is a creation of King Dhatusena.