Object Details
Catalogue Note
A large 19th-century bronze Shakyamuni Buddha associated with the northern Thai Lan Na tradition, seated in bhumisparsha mudra on an unusually elaborate openwork throne. The 52 cm sculpture is heavily cast at 13.3 kg and combines a compact Buddha image with an architectural pedestal of scrolling openwork forms.
Form and attribution
The Buddha is seated with the right hand touching the earth, a central image in Theravada Buddhist art. The robust modelling, pronounced hair curls and raised ushnisha relate to northern Thai Buddhist traditions. Some decorative features of the throne also reflect broader Himalayan and regional influences; the attribution is therefore presented conservatively as Lan Na-style rather than as a narrowly defined workshop.
Bronze and openwork throne
The sculpture is hollow cast in bronze using a traditional lost-wax process. The openwork base is integral to the visual impact of the piece and shows hand-finished casting details, irregularities and an aged surface. The underside retains remnants of casting-core material.
Condition
Historic condition with oxidation, patina, surface deposits, casting irregularities and wear. These features are visible throughout the photographic record and form part of the object’s aged character.
Details
- Origin: Northern Thailand / Lan Na cultural region
- Date: 19th century
- Subject: Shakyamuni Buddha
- Material: Bronze
- Mudra: Bhumisparsha
- Dimensions: H 52 × W 36.5 cm
- Weight: 13.3 kg
- SKU: 512
