Large Lacquered Wood Antique Burmese Buddha Statue

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Description

A gilt and lacquered wood Buddha statue from Southeast Asia likely Burma, circa 19th century. The Buddha is depicted as … Read more A gilt and lacquered wood Buddha statue from Southeast Asia likely Burma, circa 19th century. The Buddha is depicted as seating on a slightly tapered multifaceted plinth throne in an "Adamantine" position (Vajrasana), with his legs crossed and the soles of both feet turned up (also known as double lotus position in China). His hands are held in "Bhumisparsha mudra", a popular iconography of the seated Buddha in Southeast Asia that means "calling the earth to witness his steadfastness". The style of this Buddha image is commonly known as the "Shan Style", characterized by the typical bell shape usnisa (turban) the on the head with tightly rendered curled hair and a serene facial expression.
The wood construction is visible from inside the base. The surface was lacquered in red and black and further gilt with gold leaves. Many areas such as the knees, shoulder and back show rubbing and loss of the gilt, result in a beautiful aged patina that reveals the underneath color. The piece appears to be of the original condition with only minor losses to the edge of the base.
A beautiful example of the iconography from that part of world and the practice of the Buddhism worship. See less