Antique Lanna Bronze Buddha
Style
Lanna, Chiang Mai School, Phra Singh Sam type. The Buddha is seated in vajrāsana in Bhumisparsha Mudra, with the right hand touching the earth and the left resting in dhyana mudra upon the lap. The serene face features downcast eyes, arched brows, a gentle meditative smile and elongated earlobes. Tightly curled hair rises to a tall ushnisha. The diaphanous sanghati drapes over the left shoulder while leaving the right shoulder bare, falling in finely rendered folds over the legs. The figure sits upon a rounded lotus pedestal with beaded rim and stepped plinth.
Period
14th–15th Century, Lanna Kingdom, Northern Thailand. The sculpture belongs to the celebrated artistic tradition of the Chiang Mai school during the golden age of Lanna Buddhist art. Works of this scale and refinement were associated with important royal and monastic patronage in the Chiang Mai and Ping River region.
Material
Cast bronze with a rich, warm brown patina and subtle golden undertones. The casting is notably refined, with crisp detailing to the facial features, robe and pedestal ornament.
Size
Height: 52 cm (20½ in.)
Lap width: 30.5 cm (12 in.)
Provenance
Private american collection
Condition
Very good overall antique condition. Expected surface wear, minor casting irregularities and age-related oxidation consistent with a centuries-old ritual object. The figure is solidly cast and stable.
 
Check our articles about thai buddhist art