A LARGE LACQUER-GILT BRONZE FIGURE OF BUDDHA SHAKYAMUNI, RATTANAKOSIN KINGDOM Thailand, 18^th-19^th century. Seated in virasana on a three-tiered base decorated with elaborate floral design, each tier with flame-shaped spikes. The right hand in bhumisparsha mudra, the left resting on his lap, wearing a samghati, his face with a meditative expression and with downcast eyes below arched eyebrows, aquiline nose, gentle smile, elongated earlobes, the hair in tight curls surmounted by a flame. Each tier painted in red lacquer on the upper side, the figure and sides of the base covered in gilt. The back with two loops.

Inscriptions: The lowest tier of the base inscribed with what is most likely a donor dedication.

Provenance: French trade.
Condition: Fine condition overall, commensurate with age. Old wear, traces of use, shallow surface scratches, some casting flaws, flaking to gilt. Small nicks, cracks and dents. The flame slightly bent.

Weight: 15.1 kg
Dimensions: Height 49.6 cm

The Buddha is seated on an elaborate stepped base in virasana, the heroic posture. His left hand rests gently on his lap whilst the elongated fingers of his right hand are outstretched in bhumisparsa mudra. This gesture echoes his call of the Earth to witness and attest to his achievement of maravijaya: Enlightenment, thus taking this throne and vanquishing Mara's demonic retinue.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Bonhams Hong Kong, 29 March 2019, lot 54
Price: HKD 150,000 or approx. EUR 19,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A copper alloy figure of a seated buddha in maravijaya, Thailand, Bangkok/Rattanakosin period, 19th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related pose, dress, and form of the base. Note the larger size (86 cm) and that only the base is gilt.