Finely Cast Sino-Tibetan Gautama Buddha Gilt Bronze

Item Details

A spectacularly cast Sino-Tibetan gilt bronze of Gautama Buddha, also known as Śākyamuni. Gautama is seated in dhyānāsana pose upon an intricate lotus base featuring lingzhi fungus details, a Chinese symbol of longevity. He is clothed in richly detailed, elegantly draped robes that feature delicate borders and patterning. His sensitively cast face is framed by his long earlobes and bears a serene expression and features the urna third eye, representing vision and understanding of the divine worlds beyond our physical realm. His tightly curled hair bears traces of blue polychromy. His right arm gently rests on his knee with his fingertips touching the earth in the bhūmiparśa mudrā, representing the Buddha’s enlightenment. His left hand rests upon his lap in the dhyāna mudrā, a gesture of meditation.

The underside features an interesting example of the syncretic nature of Sino-Tibetan art. It is etched with a double-vajra (dorje) symbol, the most important emblem in Vajrayana Buddhism, with a Daoist taijitu symbol at its center, representing the complementary cosmic forces of yin and yang. The vajra mark suggests that the sculpture was consecrated for use in a Buddhist temple. The copper plate bearing the mark seals the hollow statue and pieces of paper are partially visible in the gaps where the plate meets the statue. These may be sutras or prayers that were sealed inside during the statue’s consecration.

Condition

- some inconsistency to patina resulting from handling.

Dimensions

Item #

17CIN085-006