19th-century bronze Buddha with remnants of 24-carat gold – lot 087

Buddha with gold – 19th-century bronze statue with traces of 24-karat fire gilding (lot 087) 

This 19th-century Tibetan bronze Buddha retains clearly visible traces of its original 24-karat fire-gilding. For collectors seeking a gilded Buddha, this original gilding is particularly significant: the gold has worn naturally over the course of more than a century, remaining primarily within the folds of the robe and the recessed areas of the figure. This is not a modern layer of gold applied later, but an ancient fire-gilding bonded directly to the bronze surface. This creates the warm, time-worn patina characteristic of antique gilded bronzes.

The posture is simultaneously serene and powerful, featuring a classic meditative pose instantly recognizable within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The bronze feels heavy and substantial for its size, weighing 1.5 kg and measuring 20.5 cm in height and 13.5 cm in width. The statue shows no signs of modern mass production; the underside and interior reveal a rough, aged texture with natural oxidation, consistent with traditional 19th-century Tibetan casting.

This is not merely a decorative object devoid of history, but a genuine devotional image intended for long-term use on a home altar. Those specifically looking for a gilded Buddha will find here not a modern, fully gilded piece, but an authentic antique Buddha bearing visible traces of its original gold finish. Whether as a collector's item or a distinctive interior accent, it possesses an aura that modern reproductions lack.

Estimated value: €1,200 – €1,800. Asking price: €399. Lot 087 comes with a guarantee of authenticity, insured shipping, and a 30-day cooling-off period.

Estimated value: €1,200 – €1,800

This is a 19th-century Tibetan Buddha statue in bronze with clear remnants of original fire gilding in 24-carat gold. The gold has worn naturally over time and is visibly embedded in the folds and recessed areas of the statue, not as a modern layer applied on top, but truly interwoven with the surface. This gives the statue that warm, weathered appearance seen only in old gilded work.

The posture is calm and powerful at the same time, featuring a classic meditation position instantly recognizable within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The bronze feels heavy and compact for its size and shows no signs of modern production. The interior and underside display a rough, aged texture with natural oxidation, consistent with traditional Tibetan casting from the 19th century.

This is not a decorative object without history, but a serious devotional statue intended for long-term use. An honest, authentic Tibetan Buddha with visible age and character.

Dimensions: H 20.5 × W 13.5 cm  
Weight: 1.5 kg  
Lot: 087

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

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