Jain Shrine

About the Art

This shrine would have been in the house of a wealthy adherent of Jainism. A central part of Jain practice is daily veneration of an image of a Jina, which means “victor.” A sculpture of a Jina would have sat behind the doors of this shrine. Jina are ones who have conquered all desire and attachment to this world, breaking free from the karmic cycle of birth, death and rebirth. That is why they are also known as Tirthankara, or “one who fords the waters,” for they have crossed the endless river of rebirth. There are twenty-four Tirthankaras, the last being Mahavira (“Great Hero,” 599–527 BCE), who was a near contemporary of the historical Buddha. Intricately carved, the shrine is full of details rich with symbolism that reinforces its use as a place for spiritual reflection.

FEATURED IMAGE
Artist(s) unknown (India, Gujarat), Jain Shrine, 18th century, wood with relief, glass inlay and traces of pigments, 62 x 55 x 32 inches (157.5 x 139.7 x 81.3 cm). Museum purchase with funds provided by the Carnell Bequest for Fine Arts Objects, 1945.66