Buddha Shakyamuni miniature statue made of brass

Shakyamuni Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, is the historical Buddha and founder of Buddhism. He lived in the 5th or 6th century BC in what is now Nepal and northern India. After years of asceticism and meditation, he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya. His teachings include the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, which show the way to overcoming suffering. Shakyamuni is often depicted in meditation, with the earth-touching gesture (Bhumisparsha Mudra), which symbolizes the moment of his enlightenment. He stands for compassion, wisdom and universal truth.