Monumental 19th-Century Bronze-Cast Buddha Shakyamuni on Openwork Altar Throne – Lan Na / Tibetan Style (52 cm)

This monumental bronze Shakyamuni Buddha statue (52 cm) is an impressive 19th-century altar piece in which the elegant North-Thai Lan Na tradition converges with powerful Tibetan influences. Cast from an exceptionally heavy, thick-walled bronze alloy and weighing no less than 13.3 kg, this statue belongs to the highest quality class within antique temple bronzes. The rare openwork altar throne, refined details and rich historical patina make this sculpture an exceptional collector's item and an impressive spiritual centerpiece for an exclusive interior or collection.

The Philosophical & Spiritual Significance: Why this statue is essential

This Shakyamuni Buddha represents the pinnacle of Buddhist teachings: the victory over ignorance and the attainment of full enlightenment.

• Bhumisparsha Mudra: By touching the earth with his right hand, the Buddha calls upon the earth as a witness to his enlightenment. The hand gesture symbolizes steadfastness, truth, and the victory over all inner and outer trials.
• Lan Na Iconography: The prominent ushnisha, characteristic spiral hair curls, and serene facial expression reflect the refined visual language of the historical North-Thai Lan Na kingdom.
• Architectural Altar Throne: The richly openworked throne literally and symbolically elevates the Buddha above earthly existence and emphasizes his spiritual sublimity.
• Temple Tradition: The visible traces of long-term ritual use give the statue a special spiritual aura and connect it directly to centuries of religious devotion.

Material & Craftsmanship Analysis

• Solid Thick-Walled Bronze: The sculpture is crafted using the traditional lost-wax method (cire perdue) and is distinguished by an exceptionally heavy and thick-walled bronze construction of 13.3 kg.
• Rare Openwork Throne: The monumental altar base is richly adorned with floral tendrils and cloud motifs in high relief, a technically particularly complex casting that is rarely found.
• Historical Temple Patina: In the recessed parts, there are old deposits of incense ash, temple soot, and ritual oil, created by long-term religious use. The natural olive-green and charcoal-brown patina is completely authentic.
• Authentic Production Characteristics: The hollow interior preserves remnants of the original clay and sand casting core, while subtle casting irregularities confirm the traditional artisanal production process.

Specifications

• Height: 52.0 cm
• Width: 36.5 cm
• Weight: 13.3 kg
• Origin: Thailand / Lan Na cultural area with Tibetan influences
• Period: 19th century
• Material: High-quality thick-walled bronze
• Technique: Traditional lost-wax method (cire perdue)
• Iconography: Shakyamuni Buddha in Bhumisparsha Mudra on openwork altar throne
• Condition: Excellent original condition with authentic ritual patina and historical traces of use

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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