A rare 7th-century copper alloy statue from Eastern India, of a standing figure of the Buddha Sakyamuni, and a small selection of Indian Buddhist sculpture will be on display at New Walk Museum & Art Gallery, Leicester from 2nd July – 11th September 2005. The exquisite gold-toned figure, 14 inches high, depicts the Buddha in the style of the late Gupta period in India in the late 6th or early 7th century.

It shares a number of distinctive features with other Buddhas of the period. The historical Buddha is represented standing in a slightly flexed pose, with his right hand raised in the gesture of benevolent reassurance, reaffirming the Buddha’s role as protector of devotees.

Made of copper alloy, it features a finely carved head with stylised hair curls and delicate features. The robes are folded and drawn across both shoulders and ‘wet drapery’ defines the bodily form beneath. The downward cast of the eyes indicates that this image was designed to be installed in an elevated position, on an altar, and, on occasions, to be carried in processions. It displays a number of supernatural marks, the auspicious marks of Buddhahood, including the skull protuberance and webbed fingers.

The British Museum and the V&A joined together to acquire this statue, the first of its kind to enter a public European collection. As part of its national tour, it will visit Birmingham, Bradford, Leicester and Exeter as the centrepiece of a loan exhibition of Indian Buddhist sculpture.

Neil MacGregor, Director of the British Museum, said: “This magnificent object is a document of Buddhism's spiritual and artistic inheritance and contribution to world civilisation. There are more people interested in Buddhism throughout the UK and many more practising Buddhists than ever before. I am delighted that these two national museums can come together in this new way to make this acquisition for the nation, and show it in a new way that means it will be seen this year by people across the length and breadth of Britain”.

Mark Jones, Director of the V&A, said: "The V&A has wanted to acquire a Gupta-style Buddha for more than forty years. This is a rare and beautiful object which adds immeasurably to our Indian collections. It is wonderful that the opportunity to buy this statue has arisen and that by joining with the British Museum, and with the help of generous donors, we are together able to put it on public display."