Object Details
Catalogue Note
A large 19th-century Thai bronze Buddha seated in bhumisparsha mudra, the earth-touching gesture that marks the moment of enlightenment. The sculpture has the composed mass and strong frontal presence associated with later Thai temple imagery.
Earth witness iconography
The right hand descends toward the ground while the left rests in the lap. This asymmetrical gesture turns a stable seated figure into a narrative image of the Buddha calling the earth to witness his awakening.
Object details
- Origin: Thailand
- Date: 19th century
- Material: Bronze
- Mudra: Bhumisparsha
Iconography and Context
Bhumisparsha Mudra is the earth-touching gesture associated with Shakyamuni calling the earth to witness his awakening. The lowered right hand turns the stable seated image into a direct reference to the moment of Enlightenment.
Condition and Display
The bronze surface shows the tonal variation, patina and raised-detail wear described in the catalogue note. The 10 photographs document the sculpture from multiple angles, including the reverse and base.
