The ushnisha is a raised cranial protuberance, sometimes described as a three- dimensional oval or a top knot chignon, that is a symbol of the Buddha’s Enlightenment and denotes his intellectual power, wisdom, and attainment of spiritual radiance. It’s origin may be from hair styling in India where men tied their long hair in a bun to wear a turban or, as with the Buddha, an ascetic’s top-knot. Artistic renderings of the ushnisha vary by region and Buddhist tradition. In Mahayana Buddhism it is portrayed as a smooth rounded bump atop the Buddha’s head and in Southeast Asia, center of Theravada Buddhism, it is often represented as a tall thin rising flame or lotus flower. The ushnisha is sometimes centered with a painted hemisphere, called a nikkeishu in Japanese, symbolizing a jewel radiating the light of wisdom.
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Rare antique Lao Buddha stands in abhaya mudra that connotes reassurance, divine protection, and dispelling fear. In wet style Buddha robe, the giltreflecting his golden skin. A finial or radiance emerges from his head.
Rare, gilt covered Jambupati Buddha in Earth Witnessing position on high multi-tiered throne. Court attire, luxuriant jewelry and decorative flanges on faceted crown topped by long ushnisha. Strength and smile emphasize his spiritual and material power.
This elegant Jambupati Buddha is seated in lavish gilt court attire in Earth Witnessing mudra, one hand in his lap and one reaching over to touch the earth. Dazzling gilt covers his body, elaborate crown with butterfly flanges and his kingly garment that is “bejeweled” with multi- colored cut glass inset pieces. His multi-tiered throne emphasizes his royal status. He looks directly at onlookers with confidence and a slight smile to emphasize his spiritual and material power.
Lao carved Buddha statues are renowned for their delicacy and refinement. This elegant antique Buddha is depicted in the “Calling for Rain” mudra found only in Laos with his half-closed gazing downward in meditation, elegant gestures, lyrical flaring robes and graceful curves of the body reflecting the Buddha’s gentleness. The curvature, proportions and oversized head indicate the perfection, wisdom and compassion of the “Enlightened One. He stands on a multi-tiered circular and waisted base. Carved Laotian images as old and elegant as this are rare.
Thai bronze Lopburi style Buddha in Earth Witnessing position on decorative pierced throne on 3 footed curved base wearing simple 2-part Theravada Buddhist monk’s robe showing his modest religious devotion. Heavy statue filled with cement binder.
Magnificent rare Ming Buddha covered with dark lacquer, indications of gold and red pigmentation. Seated in meditation on an elaborate lotus throne, this rare masterpiece would enhance any environment with its spiritual energy and beauty.
This mid 20th century Buddha Shakyamuni in Earth Witnessing position is carved in rural Lao style. Covered with gilt, the small rustic and simply carved image follows Lao artistic canons for depicting a Buddha: a curved hairline and high arched eyebrows that meet at the bridge of the nose, distinct hair curls, long ears, and a flame-shaped radiance emerging from his ushnisha. Its very large base is as tall and wide as the image, reflecting Laotian beliefs that a high pedestal reflects a deep respect for the Buddha. A base has been added for display purposes. Authentic old Lao images, even small personal ones like this, are difficult to find.
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