Ascension
Gandhara Buddha and Koi Fish
In Chinese legend, the Koi fish swim upstream along the Yellow River in China, battling raging rapids and torrential falls. For centuries, only the strongest and most determined Koi have navigated all these challenges but one - the fabled and unattainable Dragon’s Gate Falls.
Until one Golden Koi persevered against the deluge from the heavens and made it over the Dragon’s Gate. In admiration of this herculean feat, the Gods transformed the Koi into a majestic Dragon, the epitome of power and strength.
The legend reflects man’s journey towards transcendence and enlightenment, to the path of the Buddha.
Seated in quiet dignity, is the Gandharan Buddha, from the ancient culture of Gandhara, an intersection of Indian, Greco-Roman and Parthian-Iranian influence. He is a poignant reminder of our shared desire for spiritual evolution that links cultures globally.
In central bloom, sits the white lotus, as a poetic emblem of purity, perseverance and rebirth.
Oil on Canvas
40in x 60in