Burma (Myanmar) | 19th century, probably ca. 1850–1900 | Teak | L 102 × H 33 cm | 12.8 kg
This large reclining Buddha is carved from teak and preserves an unusually evocative combination of black lacquer, red polychrome and traces of older gilding. At 102 cm long, it is substantial enough to have a strong sculptural presence while remaining manageable for a private collection.
The Buddha lies on his right side with the head supported by the hand, a posture closely associated with images of the Buddha's Parinirvana. The calm horizontal composition contrasts with the rich surviving surface, where generations of wear have exposed different layers of the original finish.
19th-century Burmese reclining Buddha
Reclining Buddha images occur throughout mainland Southeast Asia, but Burmese examples developed their own proportions, facial conventions and lacquer traditions. This sculpture is attributed broadly to Burma in the 19th century. It is deliberately not assigned to a more specific regional workshop without stronger evidence.
Key details
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Subject: Reclining Buddha / Parinirvana
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Origin: Burma / Myanmar
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Date: 19th century, probably ca. 1850–1900
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Material: Carved teak
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Surface: Black lacquer, red polychrome and traces of historic gilding
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Dimensions: L 102 × H 33 cm
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Weight: 12.8 kg
Surface and condition
The sculpture shows extensive age-related wear, lacquer crackle and loss, local discoloration, rubbed polychrome, losses to gilding and wear to the underside. No glass or stone inlay is present. Detailed photographs, including close and microscopic views, document the surface rather than hiding its condition.
A distinctive example for a collection of antique Burmese Buddha statues, wooden Buddhist sculpture or Parinirvana imagery.
