Central Thailand

Important Bouddha Śākyamuni seated in Māravijaya, depicted in the gesture of taking the Earth as witness, bhūmisparśa-mudrā. The figure sits on a spectacular tiered throne richly decorated, combining flamboyant motifs, beaded registers and foliage, red lacquer reserves and antique gilding. The Buddha presents a serene face with downcast eyes, long ears, hair formed of tight small curls and an uṣṇīṣa topped by a tall flame. The monastic robe, very smooth and scarcely pleated, leaves the right shoulder bare and extends into a narrow saṃghāti descending over the chest. The large frontal decor of the throne corresponds to a pha thip, a characteristic element of the Siamese tradition, while the straps kept at the back of the base are probably linked to an old ritual parasol device now disappeared. The lower register of the base bears an ancient inscription engraved on three lines, probably of dedicatory or commemorative character. However, its state of wear does not allow a reliable transcription, and no date is retained from this text. The whole is characteristic of the Rattanakosin / Bangkok School production, probably from the early or first half of the 19th century. The sculpture preserves a strong presence, reinforced by the monumentality of the throne, the richness of the decors and the quality of the antique gilding. Provenance: French art market. Acquired in 2022. video link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/de29qgydelr3i6gdbjwfw/ABY5SJK0r1EckJBBTF6FQEY?rlkey=qmdjcfsxvqimus8nikcsqo71g&dl=0

Estimate:£6,745.5

View all items fromCatawikiorAncient Art