Museum-worthy Himalayan Bronze Buddha with Silver Eyes – 16th–17th Century – 49.5 cm

Early Himalayan Bronze Buddha with Silver Eyes

Estimated value: €28,000 – €45,000

An exceptional Himalayan Buddha for those seeking a statue with genuine presence, depth, and ritual power. This is not a decorative Buddha statue, but a heavy bronze object with the appearance of an ancient temple statue. The dark patina, silver-inlaid eyes, and monumental throne base immediately give the statue a quiet, powerful authority. The Buddha sits in Bhumisparsha Mudra, the posture in which the earth is touched as a witness to enlightenment. This mudra represents steadfastness, inner strength, and overcoming doubt. It is precisely in combination with the dark temple patina that the statue acquires a very concentrated and spiritual appearance. The silver-inlaid eyes are particularly noteworthy, a detail that lends the face great liveliness. The heavy eyelids, long earlobes, and restrained facial expression are consistent with an early Himalayan tradition featuring West Tibetan, Mustang, and Newar influences. The throne base is richly decorated with lions, elephants, a central Atlas figure, and finely hand-engraved floral and tendril work. The back is also fully finished, which clearly elevates the piece above a standard decorative item. The interior shows old casting core remnants, mineral oxidation, and traces of traditional lost-wax casting. Together with the weight of 10.6 kg, the deep patina, and the ritual appearance, this supports an early, pre-industrial placement within the Himalayan region.

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