Monumental Fire-Gilded Buddha – The Great Teacher (Vitarka Mudra)
An imposing masterpiece 44 cm high, executed in heavy fire-gilded bronze. This statue depicts the Buddha in his capacity as a teacher, a rare and sought-after iconography within the Tibetan Rattanakosin tradition.
Product details
| Period: |
approx. 1950 – 1970 |
| Dimensions: |
Height: 44 cm | Weight: 6.4 kg |
| Material: |
Heavy fire-gilded bronze with rich patchwork relief |
| Mudra: |
Vitarka Mudra (Teaching) & Dhyana Mudra (Meditation)
|
Expertise & Iconography
This image is distinguished by the Vitarka Mudra: the right hand is raised with the thumb and index finger forming a circle, the symbol for the transmission of the Dharma (the teachings). The robe is a beautiful example of patchwork kasaya, where each panel contains unique spiritual symbols in high relief. The reverse side features an apocryphal Chinese Xuan De mark and Tibetan inscriptions, indicating the high-quality 'Sino-Tibetan' influence within this collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of the Vitarka Mudra?
The Vitarka Mudra is the gesture of discussion and instruction. It is often associated with moments when the Buddha shared his wisdom with his followers. The circle formed by the fingers represents the completion and perfection of the teachings.
