Buddha Dipankara is said to have spread the Buddhist teachings (dharma) across the world at some point in the past. In the process, he announced the coming of Buddha Shakyamuni, the Buddha of our era.
Dipankara's hand gesture refers to “turning the Wheel of the Law” – that is, disseminating the Buddhist teachings.
He is seated on a high plinth decorated with lions in a lush landscape. His body is surrounded by a shining glow encircled by large flowers. Heavenly beings shower him with blossoms.