Statue of Buddha's Disciple Ananda

Ananda is one of the ten disciples of Sakyamni. His name means joy and happiness. According to records of Buddhist sutra, he was the son of Sakyamuni's uncle Dronodana. Ananda had a good memory and was known as "the most extensive learner". He is usually presented in the image of a young man with bright eyes, graceful eyebrows and extensive knowledge. In 487 BC, Ananda was the main-chanter in the first Buddhist council convened by Kasyapa. The statement "this is so I heard" created by him in the council was widely spread and introduced later to the Chinese version of Buddhist sutra as the first sentence of the introductory chapter. He is honored by Zen Buddhist sect as the second founder of the Western Paradise.

This statue is plain, unadorned and hollowed inside. It is designed with a Roman nose, a wide mouth, big ears, a bare head and its eyes close slightly. It reveals a comely and handsome profile of Ananda.