Description:

Southeast Asia, Burma, modern Myanmar, Shan (Tai Yai period), ca. 1780 CE. An elegant cast bronze Shan Buddha, showing a natural deep green verde patina throughout with remnants of red lacquer and gold leaf, seated in full lotus position atop a tiered domed throne, with characteristic Shan traits including a triangular face delineated with a broad forehead, eyebrows that arch high over his narrowly opened eyes, a pointed nose, pursed thin lips, large and elongated ears, and a short neck. His hair coiffed in a lovely ushnisha is topped by a pointed crown. Shan Buddhas, like this example, are often seated in Vajrasana pose with hands in Bhumisparsha or calling the earth to witness Mudra, his left hand on lap with palm upright and his right hand touching the earth. This Mudra symbolizes the moment of Buddha's enlightenment. According to legend, Siddhartha Gautama (the historical Buddha) was attacked by a demon Mara with legions of frightful monsters. They intended to scare Siddhartha away from the sacred Bodhi tree. However, Siddhartha would not move. Mara then dared to claim Siddhartha's seat of enlightenment for himself, claiming that his spiritual deeds were more significant than Siddhartha's. Mara's monsters cried out, "I am his witness!" and Mara looked at Siddhartha and challenged, "Who will speak for you?" Siddhartha's replied without words. Instead he reached out his right hand to touch the earth, and the earth boldly pronounced, "I bear you witness!" Suspended on stainless steel rod imbedded in clear Lucite base. Size: 8" x 6" x 3-1/2" (20.3 x 15 x 8.9 cm)

Provenance: Ex-private Northern Colorado collection; acquired at K7 Antiques, Singapore, 1998.

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#110946

  • Condition: Intact with normal surface wear and abrasion to red lacquer and gold leaf. Gorgeous natural verde patina.

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November 19, 2015 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000