Antique Burmese Reclining Buddha in Teak – 19th Century – 102 cm

Antique Reclining Buddha from Burma

An impressive and exceptionally expressive Buddha figure from Burma, present-day Myanmar, carved from teak and dating to the 19th century, most likely the second half of the century, circa 1850–1900. Measuring 102 cm in length and weighing 12.8 kg, the sculpture has a monumental presence, while its restful pose and restrained facial expression evoke a profound sense of stillness.

The Buddha reclines on his right side with his head supported by one hand. The powerful silhouette, finely carved hair curls and rhythmically rendered folds of the robe create both serenity and sculptural tension. Black lacquer, red polychromy and scattered remnants of old gilding give the surface a rich, time-worn character.

Iconography

The reclining Buddha is one of the most recognisable subjects in Buddhist art. The posture is associated with repose, inner peace and the passage into parinirvana: the final release following complete enlightenment. The calm expression conveys not death, but spiritual fulfilment and liberation.

Material and Surface

The figure is hand-carved from teak, a durable wood widely used in Burma for temple figures and devotional sculpture. The exposed areas of the body are finished in black lacquer, while the robe is painted red. Old remnants of gilding survive across the surface, particularly in recessed areas, on the face and between the carved hair curls.

The layered finish, local craquelure, wear and irregularly preserved gilding are clearly visible in the detail and microscope photographs. The figure has no stone or glass inlay, reinforcing its powerful and restrained appearance.

Date and Origin

Burma / Myanmar, 19th century, probably second half of the 19th century, circa 1850–1900. Its carving and surface treatment belong to the Burmese tradition of wooden devotional sculpture. As the precise regional workshop is undocumented, the figure is deliberately described as Burmese without attribution to a specific Mandalay workshop.

Specifications

• Origin: Burma / Myanmar
• Period: 19th century, probably circa 1850–1900
• Material: teak
• Finish: black lacquer, red polychromy and old remnants of gilding
• Inlay: no stone or glass inlay
• Height: 33 cm
• Length: 102 cm
• Weight: 12.8 kg
• Type: reclining Buddha / devotional figure

Condition

Good antique condition consistent with age, material and devotional use. The surface shows natural wear, craquelure, minor lacquer losses, discolouration and local losses to the polychromy and gilding. The underside displays age-related marks and wear. No stone or glass inlay is present. Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the condition report.

A Sculpture of Exceptional Presence

With its generous scale, restrained palette and authentic patina, this is a distinguished collector’s piece for an interior, art collection or contemplative space. Its combination of monumental scale and serene iconography gives the sculpture a compelling presence from virtually every angle.