Estimated value: €2,500 – €3,000
This fire-gilded bronze Brahma statue with four faces and six arms is an authentic example of Southeast Asian temple art, crafted using the traditional lost-wax technique. The statue depicts Brahma in a seated position on a raised pedestal, with meticulously crafted attributes and refined ornamentation characteristic of pre-industrial bronze casting.
Under microscopic examination, clear remnants of original fire-gilding are visible, particularly in recessed areas and along edges and details. The highlights show natural wear resulting from prolonged ritual use. The patina consists of a layered structure of cuprite, dark oxidation, and mineral deposits, consistent with a prolonged and natural aging process and incompatible with modern reproduction.
The modeling shows irregular manual cutting marks and light overcuts, characteristic of manual wax modeling before casting. There are no indications of serial production or later modern interventions. All faces, arms, and attributes are intact and sharply modeled.
Iconographically, Brahma symbolizes creative power and omniscience. The four faces refer to the four cardinal directions and the universal scope of his knowledge. Despite its compact size, the statue possesses a striking weight and presence, which is typical of high-quality temple bronze.
The statue can be dated to the 17th–19th century and fits within a Siamese / Southeast Asian context. This is an authentic old devotional object, not a modern work or tourist product.
Dimensions: H 29.5 × W 16 cm
Weight: 4.8 kg
Material: Bronze with original fire gilding
Expertise & Symbolism
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