18th C. Burmese Shan Lacquer Wood Buddha, Trace Gilding

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Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art

By Artemis Fine Arts

May 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-05-01 10:00:00 2025-05-01 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-asian-ethno-fine-art-19334
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• Lot Description
  Southeast Asia, Burma (Myanmar), ca. 18th century CE. Behold this impressive Buddha, a Shan-style sculpture crafted from lacquered wood with the lingering shimmer of past gilding. Seated in padmasana, his legs are firmly locked, symbolizing stability and profound meditative absorption. His left hand rests serenely in his lap, palm upward in the dhyana mudra, the gesture of meditation, concentration, and spiritual balance. Meanwhile, his right hand gracefully extends to touch the earth in the powerful bhumisparsha mudra, invoking the Earth as witness to his enlightenment. This particular combination of posture and mudras, along with distinct facial features, the style of the monastic robes, and the tiered conical ushnisha (the cranial protuberance symbolizing wisdom), are characteristic of the Shan style that flourished in the Shan State of Burma. Influenced by artistic traditions from neighboring regions, Shan Buddha images often possess a distinctive elegance and serene expression, setting them apart within the broader spectrum of Burmese Buddhist art. Size: 9.6" L x 11.3" W x 30.5" H (24.4 cm x 28.7 cm x 77.5 cm)
  
  In Burma, the bhumisparsha mudra holds a particularly revered place within Buddhist iconography, deeply resonating with the nation's Theravada Buddhist traditions. This powerful gesture, depicting the Buddha calling the Earth to witness his enlightenment, is frequently represented in sculptures and artwork throughout the country. It serves as a potent reminder of the Buddha's triumph over Mara's temptations and the ultimate attainment of Buddhahood through unwavering perseverance and accumulated merit. The prevalence of this mudra underscores the Burmese emphasis on the historical Buddha's journey to enlightenment as the ultimate spiritual aspiration, embodying themes of steadfastness, truth, and the profound connection between the enlightened being and the earth itself. As such, the bhumisparsha mudra is not merely an artistic convention but a deeply symbolic expression of core Buddhist beliefs that permeate Burmese religious life and artistic expression.
  
  Provenance: private San Pedro, California, USA collection
  
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  #193443

  Condition

  Some stable hairline fissures to wood, as well as areas of weathering and abrasions, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and very nice with light patina. Good remains of lacquer and trace remains of gilding.
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