Head of Buddha, probably the Buddha Sakyamuni c. early 7th - 8th century

Curator: Here we have a sculpture from an anonymous artist, "Head of Buddha, probably the Buddha Sakyamuni," currently housed in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Its serene expression is immediately striking, a quiet stoicism rendered in stone. I wonder about the choice of material. Curator: Stone conveys permanence, perhaps reflecting the timeless nature of Buddhist teachings. The tightly curled hair, each spiral a symbol of holiness, is meticulously crafted. Editor: Absolutely, but what does it mean to display just a head? This act of fragmentation, removing the body, speaks to the colonial history of acquiring and displaying cultural artifacts. Curator: True, but the head itself is a powerful symbol, representing intellect, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. The closed eyes suggest introspection, a turning inward. Editor: I see that, but it's hard to ignore the sociopolitical implications of isolating such a revered image. It invites us to consider both the spiritual and the historical context. Curator: It reminds us that objects carry multiple layers of meaning, evolving over time and across cultures. Editor: Precisely, engaging with this sculpture means grappling with its beauty, its history, and its complex legacy.