Southeast Asia, Thailand, 19th century CE. A large wooden shrine figure with two seated Buddhas in identical postures on a rectangular throne. Behind them is an elaborate decorated screen that represents a doorway, with several layers of carved details; the small triangular elements of the throne echo the shape of the doorway. The entire shrine seems at one point to have gilded and painted red details but most of these are now worn. Size: 7.95" L x 14.5" W x 29.75" H (20.2 cm x 36.8 cm x 75.6 cm)

Buddhas are always depicted in different mudras, or poses, that represent historical moments in the Buddha's life, forms of meditation, or a symbolic combination of both. These two Buddhas are depicted in the Bhumisparsha mudra, with their right hands over their right knees reaching towards the ground and their palms inward. Their left hand lies in their laps with their palms upright. This mudra represents the moment of the Buddha's awakening, as he defeated the demon Mara, and claimed the earth as his witness to his enlightenment. Robert Thurman has written, "Buddha images are like Buddhas themselves in a very real sense - as art emanation bodies - because they have the power to transform." These particular Buddhas, with their serene faces and timeless look, sit ready to enlighten the viewer.

Provenance: private Arizona, USA collection

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#119003

One arm has been repaired. Minor losses to edges. There are remains of gilding in some places and dark patina on much of the wood.