- Material: bronze
- Era: approximately 20th century
- Size: 20.5cm x 14.0cm x 10.5cm
- Weight: 1036g
- Country of origin: Nepal
- Condition: Vintage statue, patina and surface wear. The surface shows original oxidation and tones reflecting heat, touch and age.
The seated Buddha is one of the most classical postures in Buddhist art. Historically, the anthropomorphic image of the Buddha developed in the first century CE in India, particularly within the Gandhara and Mathura schools.
The style of this vintage-inspired statue draws upon a long artistic tradition in which the Buddha’s iconic features — the urna, the mark between the eyes, the ushnisha, the cranial protuberance at the top of the head, and the serene facial expression — embody the concept of enlightenment and the visual language of Buddhist iconography.
The urna symbolises spiritual vision and the ability to perceive reality beyond ordinary sight. It refers to the Buddha’s insight and wisdom. The ushnisha represents spiritual development, enlightenment, and expanded consciousness. The calm expression reflects mental balance, compassion, and inner stability — central aims of Buddhist teaching.
Manufacture
The statue has been created using the traditional lost-wax casting method (cire perdue), which has been employed for centuries in Asia for the production of metal Buddha figures. In this process, the figure is first modelled in wax, around which a mould is formed. The wax is then melted away and the resulting cavity filled with molten metal. After casting, the surface is finished by hand, details are refined, and finally the statue is patinated to enhance depth and character.
The statue is hollow and fitted with a removable base plate, a feature typical of traditional Himalayan castings.
Symbolism and Historical Context
Bhumisparsha Mudra: The Earth-Touching Gesture
This statue depicts the Buddha seated with the right hand touching the earth and the left resting in the lap. This posture is known in Buddhist iconography as the Bhumisparsha mudra, or “earth-touching gesture”.
It represents the moment when Siddhartha Gautama, the future Buddha, attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. By extending his right hand to touch the earth, he called the earth to witness his awakening and overcame Mara, the demon of temptation. The gesture symbolises unwavering resolve and inner strength.
Mudras are symbolic hand gestures that form part of the Indian religious tradition and became established within Buddhist iconography to represent events in the Buddha’s life and his spiritual qualities. They have been in use since at least the early centuries CE and can be seen in various forms throughout Buddhist art across South, Southeast, and East Asia.
Lotus Base: Purity and Enlightenment
The Buddha is frequently depicted seated upon a lotus base. The lotus is one of the most central elements in Buddhist art and symbolism. Growing from mud yet blossoming untouched above the water’s surface, it represents purity of mind and enlightenment beyond the material world.
The Buddha seated upon the lotus therefore conveys the aspiration towards enlightenment and inner liberation.
The Role of the Buddha Image
Buddha statues have formed an essential part of Buddhist visual culture for centuries and carry deep philosophical and doctrinal significance. They function as:
- Educational representations illustrating significant moments in the Buddha’s life
- Aids to meditation and contemplation, allowing focus on a specific mudra or gesture
- Spiritual symbols embodying values such as compassion, awareness, and peace
Placement and Care
The statue is well suited to a meditation space, altar, shelf, or a visible place within a room where it may serve as a symbolic focal point. Placing a Buddha statue in one’s environment can create a calm and contemplative atmosphere, whether appreciated as part of a collection or through spiritual interest.
A quiet corner for reflection may be created by placing the statue at its centre, complemented by a yoga mat for meditation or yoga practice. In living spaces, it enhances a sense of balance and tranquillity, and in a yoga studio it supports a focused and peaceful atmosphere.
Care
Cleaning requires only a soft, dry cloth. Avoid strong chemicals or abrasive substances, as these may remove the patina, which forms an important part of the statue’s aesthetic and historical character.
