A LARGE BRONZE STATUE OF BUDDHA SHAKYAMUNI, EARLY MANDALAY PERIOD
Burma, 1853 to c. 1865. Massively cast, seated in dhyanasana atop a tiered base centered by a shaped panel, his right hand lowered in bhumisparsha mudra and his left held above his lap. Wearing long flowing robes cascading in voluminous folds. His serene face with heavy-lidded eyes and full lips forming a calm smile, flanked by long pendulous earlobes. The hair arranged in tight curls over the high ushnisha.

The statue entirely coated with maroon lacquer, the folds accentuated in gilt.


Provenance:
From the collection of Godfried Wauters, Belgium. His substantial art collection including Chinese and Buddhist sculptures continues to grow, significantly expanding on the collection already built by his late father Gustaaf (1905-1992).

Condition:
Very good condition with expected old wear, mostly from worship within the culture, and casting irregularities, rubbing to the lacquer and gilt, small nicks, dents, minor signs of corrosion, small losses. Fine, naturally grown patina overall.

Weight: 75.6 kg
Dimensions: Height 89 cm


Expert’s note:
The Mandalay style emerged in the second half of the 19th century during the reign of King Mindon, the penultimate King of Burma who reigned from 1853-1878. The present Buddha exhibits the characteristics of the early Mandalay style of Mindon’s reign, including a more elongated body, oval face, shorter throne, and the drapery of the robe not pointing upwards, compared to later Mandalay bronzes cast during the British period.


Literature comparison:

Compare closely related examples in the Guimet Museum, Paris, accession number MA6210.


Auction result comparison:


Type: Related
Auction: Bonhams Hong Kong, 29 March 2019, lot 41
Price: HKD 250,625 or approx.
EUR

31,500
converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A copper alloy and lacquer seated Buddha in Mara Vijaya, Myanmar, Mandalay period
Expert remark: Compare the related modeling, with similar pose and expression, and manner of casting. Note the size (100 cm).