Southeast Asia, Thailand, ca. 14th to 18th century CE. A lovely mold-cast leaded-brass depiction of the Buddha seated atop an integral plinth. The Buddha sits in the lotus position with hands making the Bhumisparsha mudra, the "earth witness" gesture. His left palm is open in his lap and his right hand reaches down to touch the earth mudra and wears a thigh-length robe with a strap over his left shoulder. His sensitive visage is composed of downturned almond-shaped eyes beneath curving brows, a bulbous nose, thin lips, and elongated ear lobes adorned with earrings. Upon his head is a feathery crown and behind his hair is gathered into a conical ushnisha, symbolic of his divine wisdom and enlightenment. This buddha appears to have been made to be viewed from all sides; the verso is just as detailed as the front, with incised lines and patterning of the clothing and coiffure. This statue has aged so gracefully; note the gorgeous green patina! Size: 9" W x 14" H (22.9 cm x 35.6 cm)
The Bhumisparsha mudra symbolizes the Buddha's moment of his awakening, as he defeated the demon Mara, and claimed the earth as his witness to his enlightenment.
Provenance: ex-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA
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#164847
Condition
Surface abrasions and softening of finer details. Small perforations to crown, left arm and body. Mineral and earthen deposits on exterior surfaces. Earthen deposits filling interior cavity. Rich green and brown patina.