This art includes sculptures, statues, bas-reliefs, paintings, mandalas (symbolic diagrams), architecture (stupas, monasteries, rock-cut caves), and its frequent subjects are scenes from the Buddha's life. Sculptures, statues, or paintings depicting the Buddha are called buddharupa in Sanskrit. They are meant not so much to commemorate a historical figure as to remind people of the latent potential to achieve Enlightenment, and to fill the viewer with peace of mind, to inspire him to achieve happiness.
Statues of Buddha depict him in various positions called Mundra, but the most common is the lotus position, symbolizing the perfect balance of thought.
