Southeast Asia, Burma (modern-day Myanmar), Mandalay period, ca. 19th century CE. A sizable and splendid statue of a seated Buddha, expertly hand-carved from creamy white marble. The elegant deity sits in full lotus position while holding his right hand in the Vitarka mudra, symbolizing discussion and transmission of Buddhist teaching, and placing his left hand in supine position in his lap. The epitome of tranquility, his serene visage presents large, downturned eyes beneath a sweeping brow, a broad nose, a pronounced philtrum, and full lips bearing a gentle smile, all flanked by a pair of elongated ears, representative of his casting off of earthly possessions. A conical ushnisha headdress symbolizing the power of his enlightenment caps his head. A thick robe drapes his square shoulders with lengthy folds of fabric cascading down his slender figure. The sacred figure sits upon a double-tiered throne, carefully incised with delicate lotus flower petals. In Burma, marble is called "sagyin" and is quarried in a mountain range north of Mandalay. This outstanding example evokes the peacefulness of the Buddha, with a mesmerizing visage that inspires meditation. Size: 18" W x 29" H (45.7 cm x 73.7 cm)

In Burma (modern Myanmar) Mandalay is regarded as the center of Buddhism, and consequently art flourished in this region and it became known as the center of pure art of Myanmar. The artists employed advanced techniques to create a sophisticated style. This example possesses characteristic traits of the Mandalay Buddha with its oval shaped face, flat temples, human-like facial features, elongated ears that extend all the way to the shoulders symbolizing Buddha's all-hearing powers and wisdom, slender body, and painted details using a pigment known as "chad." Mandalay artists appreciated realism, particularly when depicting the facial features and elegant posture.

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world’s largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, 1960 to 2000

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#164883

Chip to top of headdress. Abrasions to proper right side of face. Abrasions and nicks to interior of hands and verso. Some light surface wear, commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice remaining detail.