Lot 95
**First Time At Auction**
Southeast Asia, Thailand, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A lovely wooden figure of Buddha enveloped in lacquer and liberal remains of high quality (73 to 81%) gold - equivalent to over 17 to 20 karats! Seated in lotus position atop a plinth, the tranquil figure is shown in the earth-touching gesture or Bhumisparsha mudra in which he holds his right hand downward to the ground in order to summon the earth goddess to affirm that he is entitled to attain enlightenment following his triumph over Mara, the destroyer. His countenance bears serene, downcast eyes beneath heavy lids and sweeping brows, a smiling mouth above a rounded chin, elongated ear lobes signifying his renunciation of materialistic wealth, and a thick brow band, all beneath a nodule-form coiffure and a piriform flaming ushnisha finial. A hollow interior cavity beneath the base was intended for worshippers of Buddha to insert written prayers and holy scriptures, while his removable ushnisha may have served to hold additional prayers. Size: 6.5" W x 16.5" H (16.5 cm x 41.9 cm)
Buddhas can display various mudras (hand gestures or poses) that represent historical moments in Buddhas life, forms of meditation, or a symbolic combination of both. This Buddha displays the Bhumisparsha (earth touching) mudra, with the right hand placed over the right knee, palm inward, reaching towards his lotus throne and beyond this, the earth. He places his left hand in his lap with the palm upwards toward the celestial realm. This mudra represents the moment of his awakening, as Buddha defeated the demon Mara, and claimed the earth as his witness to his enlightenment. An impressive example of Buddhist visual culture, replete with immense artistry and numerous layers of meaning. A breathtaking symbol of peace, representing wisdom, balance, generosity, and compassion.
Provenance: private Arlington, Texas, USA collection, acquired mid to late-1960s
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#178105
- Condition: Chipping to base and stable fissures to base and right hand. Some nicks and abrasions as shown with a few inactive insect holes to verso. Otherwise, intact and excellent with liberal remains of gilding and rich patina. Ushnisha is removable.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $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 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |