Antique Buddha in Earth Witnessing Posture, Burma (3160)

Description

This 19th-century Burmese Shan (Tai Yai) Shakyamuni Buddha sits in Earth Witnessing position one of the most often portrayed postures in Southeast Asian Theravada Buddhism His right hand symbolically reaches to touch the earth at the moment of his enlightenment. He has a gentle, meditative expression, with downward-cast eyes, and slightly flared earlobes. It displays characteristics of Shan  traditional images: golden skin, smiling thick lips indicating the Buddha knows all things, and a narrow fillet band at the hairline. The flame-like finial rising from the topknot (ushnisha) symbolizing the flames of Buddhism is typical of Theravada Buddhist sculptures as are the unusually extended curved earlobes with spirals inside that flare out extending to his shoulders. He sits on a high multi-tiered throne covered with an elaborately carved ceremonial cloth as a sign of respect.

The carving shows many of the Buddha’s 32 “auspicious marks” (Lakshanas) including golden skin; a well-formed nose; elongated body, face, arms, ears and hands with fingers of equal length. His simple monk’s robes are elegantly embellished with green enamel on his sash, sleeve, border and his hairline to enliven what is mostly a red and gilt piece. The masterful face with eyes half closed emphasize his calm and quiet concentration.

Carved from a single block of wood, the surface with layers native black and red lacquer and traditionally covered with gold leaf gilding is in excellent condition. Traces of bright red highlight his monastic robes and the high tiered lotus-relief pedestal. This rare and masterful carving should ideally be placed in a special location to enables those in its presence to appreciate its artistic, cultural and spiritual significance.

The reverse side indicates it was probably a commissioned for a wealth family or to be placed on a main temple alter mean to be viewed from all sides. His skillfully carved gilded sash with detailed, raised black border lines flows over the left shoulder. The back of the lotus pedestal has its original colored glass and mirror inlays which is rare.

AI Market Valuation Summary

AI rates this piece as  Excellent Collectors  Value for the following reasons:

Its exceptionally large size indicates it was most likely was specifically commissioned for use in a temple to be viewed from all sides. It is in excellent condition with no structural or insect damage . authentic patina. The surface layer of traditional red lacquer seals  the  wood, and is overlaid with genuine gold leaf that shows natural flaking and wear with the gold  rubbed thin exposing the red under-layer. This and its fine patina are indicators of genuine age. Fine decorative details, including the sash (uttarasanga) draped over the shoulder, inlaid glass and mirrors and ushnisha so remain fully intact and unbroken, which is rare for fragile antique wood carvings.