A large copper-alloy figure of Shakyamuni Buddha, Tibetan-Himalayan region, 17th/18th century

TIBETAN-HIMALAYAN REGION, 17TH/18TH CENTURY

Cast copper alloy, bronze/brass.
56 cm high; 37 cm wide; 14.3 kg.

Finely cast seated in meditation upon a double-lotus pedestal, the right hand raised in abhaya mudra with the palm facing outward and the fingers extended, the left resting palm upward in the lap. The face is sensitively modelled with downcast eyes and gently defined lips, framed by elongated earlobes, the head and tall ushnisha covered in tightly arranged curls.

The robe falls closely across the body from the left shoulder, its borders chased with scrolling floral ornament. Further engraved detail appears at the bracelets, folds of the drapery and lotus pedestal. Subtle variations in depth and line preserve the character of individual hand-finishing.

The figure and lotus pedestal were cast separately and joined as part of the original manufacture. Historic casting adjustments are visible in several areas and bear surface ageing consistent with the surrounding metal.

Examination under 50× magnification and 365 nm ultraviolet light revealed aged copper oxidation, mineral deposits and remnants of organic material from the original casting core within the interior. These features are consistent with traditional lost-wax casting and support the proposed dating.

Condition: Good condition consistent with age. Wear and fine scratches to the warm golden surface, dark patination and accretions within recessed areas, oxidation and historic casting irregularities. Please refer to all images as an integral part of the condition report.

Further examination: Read the complete technical study with microscopy and ultraviolet images.