Antique Burmese Lacquer Wood Shan Style Buddha Statue

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A gilt lacquer wood Buddha statue from Burma, circa 19th century. The Buddha is depicted seating on a plinth throne … Read more A gilt lacquer wood Buddha statue from Burma, circa 19th century. The Buddha is depicted seating on a 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". Draped in a monastic robe, the style of this Buddha image is commonly known as the "Shan Style" from Northern part of Burma, characterized by a serene facial expression with downcast eyes, a typical bell shape Usnisa (turban) on the head and tightly rendered curled hair.
The wood construction is visible from inside the base. The exterior surface was lacquered in red and highlighted in gilt with gold leaves, much of which still remains. Many areas such as the knees, shoulder and back show rubbing and loss of the gilt, result in a beautiful, aged patina. The Usnisa was removable per construction tradition.
Lacquered wood was one of the more common materials used in Southeast Asia for Buddha statue, especially for large ones. They were built with a wood core from sectioned before layers of lacquer were applied followed by the fine surface decoration often with gilt. This is a wonderful example of such artistic tradition. See less