In this medallion, the central lotus rests inside a delicate circle of beads (ratnamālā), radiating a quiet balance. The outer border unfolds into a meandering rhizome, its graceful curves marked with nodes. From each node springs life—full-blown padmas, blue utpalas, and fresh leaves—together forming a living garland of water-borne abundance.
What fascinates me here is how both Padma and utpala emerge from the same plant. To the artists of Bharhut, they were not separate but shared symbols of the waters – the primal source of creation.
Another subtle detail lies in the negative space: the winding rhizome curves in such a way that it creates the illusion of a six-petal flower. This gentle interplay of form and emptiness reflects the medallion’s quiet harmony, where design, symbolism, and imagination meet.
Information & Reference Image Credit- Remains of Bharhut Stupa in Indian Museum by Arabinda Ghosh
Original medallion
Behind the scenes
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