Southeast Asia, Laos, ca. 19th century CE. Carved from a single piece of wood and beautifully embellished with gilding and red lacquer, a Buddha presenting the Bhumisparsha Mudra (earth touching or calling the earth to witness) sitting on an ovoid pedestal, with a meditative expression. Atop the head is a stupa-shaped "flame" finial or ushnisha symbolizing the realization of Nirvana. Such impressive artistry indicates that it was probably created for a family shrine. Custom stand. Size: 6" W x 15" H (15.2 cm x 38.1 cm); 19.25" H (48.9 cm) with stand.

This sacred figure wears a traditional sanghati with simple pleats and a long, central sash to the waist, presents a tranquil visage with closed eyes and a gentle smile, with characteristically elongated ears, intricately curled hair achieved via an incised cross-hatched pattern, and a pronounced flamed ushnisha which represents the spiritual intensity of the Buddha. The front side of the pedestal was most likely once inscribed with text written in Tai-Kadai, the language of Laos and Thailand. A bit of history on Buddhism in Laos - Buddhism was introduced to Laos as early as the first millennium CE, but was not widely practiced until the late 13th century. Buddhism was established as the state religion by founder of Lane Xang (1353-1371) but the worship of animist spirits continued to predominate for centuries. By the 17th century, Buddhism had begun to be taught in schools in Laos.

Provenance: Ex-Private Boulder, CO collection acquired at Indochine Gallery

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