Medallion 21- Bharhut Series

 

Medallion Style: Plant + Animal

The Pūrṇaghaṭa (Vase of Plenty) takes center stage in this medallion, embodying abundance and creation. It is depicted as a wide-mouthed, globular pot on a high pedestal with everted rims. The vessel itself is adorned—lotus-petal bands encircle its base and shoulders, while a row of beads graces its middle.

From its mouth rises the Tree of Life, sprouting both padmas and utpalas in full-blown and overblown forms. On the exposed pericarp of four overblown lotuses, swans perch gracefully in pecking posture, adding movement and vitality to the scene.

The symbolism here is profound: filled with life-giving water, the Pūrṇaghaṭa becomes a microcosm of the universe, holding within it creation itself—plants, animals, and the force of life. Its rounded, earth-like form is a reminder of the cosmic globe, nurturing and sustaining all existence.

This medallion captures the essence of abundance, fertility, and the eternal cycle of creation.

Information & Reference Image Credit- Remains of Bharhut Stupa in Indian Museum by Arabinda Ghosh

Original medallion

Behind the scenes