
Object Details
Catalogue Note
Dimensions: H 35 × W 27 cm
Weight: 5.4 kg
Material: 24k fire-gilded bronze
Period: 16th–17th century
Origin: Himalayan region, likely Newar workshop
Subject: Shakyamuni Buddha
This early Himalayan temple sculpture presents Shakyamuni Buddha seated on a lotus throne within a detachable floral aureole and stepped architectural base. The darkened historic surface retains traces of original fire gilding across the robe, hair and ornamental details.
Construction and workmanship
The Buddha figure and lotus throne were cast separately in the lost-wax process and assembled using traditional metalwork. The openwork aureole is decorated with leaves and flowers and is shown both attached and detached in the photographs. Hand-finished details remain visible across the figure, lotus throne and architectural base.
Surface and condition
The interior and underside show long-developed oxidation, including cuprite and malachite tones. Natural wear and surviving gilding record prolonged devotional handling. The fifteen photographs include all sides of the complete ensemble, the Buddha without the aureole, both undersides and the detached aureole from front and rear.