Seated in padmasana (lotus position) with right hand in bhumisparsha mudra (earth witness gesture) and dhyana mudra (meditation), the sculpture of the historical Buddha well-cast with sharp details throughout, the robe with floral brocade edges while exposing a bare chest containing the swastika, the ancient Sanskrit symbol of well-being, the head of robust proportions and containing downcast eyes, a full nose, fleshy lips and pendulous ears, the forehead with an urna (third eye), while the hair consists of tight whorls and a cranial bump. Remnants of polychrome in the eyes and lips.

The present figure of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni is a fine example of a late Ming Dynasty Buddhist sculpture. Despite missing the large lotus stand, this figure still stands at just over 12 inches (30 centimeters) high. The quality of the casting is exceptional, especially in the overall proportions, the floral brocade borders along the robes, the sinuous fingers and the gentle reverence of the face. This type of sculpture would have been situated in an important temple or palace setting, and part of a larger group of similar figures on a high altar.