Burma (Myanmar) | ca. 1880–1920 | Carved teak | H 166 × W 63 cm | 27 kg
This monumental standing Buddha is carved from solid teak and belongs to the late 19th- to early 20th-century Burmese sculptural tradition. At 166 cm high, it has the scale of a temple or monastic image and retains a striking combination of carved detail, dark historic lacquer and surviving traces of gold leaf.
The elongated body is wrapped in a richly carved robe whose folds and ornamental passages remain clearly legible despite extensive age-related wear. Areas of red ground are visible beneath the darker lacquer and surviving gilding, revealing the layered finishing process used on the sculpture.
Burmese temple sculpture
Large wooden Buddha images were an important part of Burmese religious interiors. Teak was particularly valued for its durability and carving qualities. This figure shows affinities with the broader Mandalay-period sculptural tradition, but it is presented here conservatively without assigning it to a specific workshop.
Key details
Subject: Standing Buddha
Origin: Burma / Myanmar
Date: ca. 1880–1920
Material: Solid carved teak
Surface: Historic dark lacquer, red ground and traces of gold leaf
Construction: Multi-part wooden construction
Dimensions: H 166 × W 63 cm
Weight: 27 kg
Condition and age
The teak has naturally moved and dried over time, producing shrinkage cracks and separations typical of large old wooden sculpture. There is extensive wear to the lacquer and gilding, along with losses, abrasions and darkened areas. These marks are visually important to the piece and have been retained rather than concealed by heavy restoration.
Its exceptional height makes this a particularly strong choice for collectors seeking a large antique Burmese Buddha with genuine architectural presence.
