What does an empty seat represent in early Buddhist iconography ?<br/>

In early Buddhist aniconic art, the Buddha was often indicated through symbols rather than a human image. An empty seat/throne most commonly signifies the Buddha’s presence at enlightenment/meditation. The First Sermon is usually marked by the dharmachakra with deer; Mahabhinishkramana by the riderless horse; Mahaparinibbana by the stupa or reclining Buddha.