Antique Burmese Buddha with Gilding and Glass Inlay – 50.5 cm

An impressive Burmese seated Buddha, hand-carved from wood and finished with a deep black lacquered surface. The richly modelled robe, hair curls and base are decorated with gilded relief and inset with small pieces of coloured and mirrored glass. The restrained dark surface contrasts beautifully with the warm gold, giving the sculpture a quietly monumental presence.

Iconography

The Buddha is seated in virasana, with the right hand extending down over the knee in bhumisparsha mudra, the earth-touching gesture that calls the earth to witness his enlightenment. The left hand rests palm-up in the lap. The lowered eyes, elongated earlobes and high ushnisha express serenity, wisdom and spiritual attainment.

Material and Surface

Carved wood with a black lacquered finish. The raised ornament of the monastic robe, hair and base retains old gilding. Small green, red and clear glass elements and mirrored pieces accent the borders and floral motifs. The microscopic photographs reveal layered gilding, a red ground, lacquer and hand-applied decoration.

Date and Origin

Burma/Myanmar, made in the decorative Burmese tradition particularly associated with Mandalay. Provisionally dated to the late 19th or early 20th century; the dating remains subject to further scholarly examination.

Condition

Good authentic condition consistent with age and devotional use. Visible age and shrinkage cracks, open joins, surface wear, local losses to the gilding, and missing or irregular pieces of glass inlay. These traces and the old patina are integral to the sculpture’s historic character. Please examine all detail and condition photographs carefully.

Specifications

• Origin: Burma/Myanmar
• Date: probably late 19th–early 20th century
• Material: wood, black lacquer, gilding and glass/mirror inlay
• Height: 50.5 cm
• Width: 42.5 cm
• Weight: 5 kg
• SKU: 737

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

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