Southeast Asia, Thailand, ca. 19th century. A splendid and sizable painting comprised of four large wooden panels and displaying a buddha in vibrant hues of crimson, gold, forest green, black, ultramarine, powder blue, and white. Seated in half-lotus position atop an integral plinth, the tranquil figure features a calm countenance of dark eyes, a naturalistic nose, and closed mouth, all topped by an Ushnisha and minimalistic diadem. He is posed in the Abhayamudra or gesture of fearlessness, displaying his right hand raised with fingers closed and facing upwards as his left palm lays supine in his lap. A large green creature, likely the naga (serpent deity) Mucalinda, can be seen above the serene deity, exhibiting almond-shaped eyes under an arched brow and a wide mouth held open to release an undulating form comprised of two snakes. Intricately painted lotus flowers adorn the background, filling every space with floral details and brilliant hues, while part of a sizable circular motif containing a pair of elegant, long-necked birds decorates the top of this remarkable example. A pair of wooden beams have been attached to the verso as a means of holding all four panels together. Size: 33" W x 50.5" H (83.8 cm x 128.3 cm)

Mucalinda, King of the Serpents, is shown protecting Buddha in this example, just as he protected Gautama Buddha from the elements after his enlightenment with his cobra-like hood.

Provenance: private Johnson collection, Los Angeles, California, USA

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#163497

Fragment of a larger piece. Expected surface wear with nicks/chips and abrasions. Otherwise, very nice with excellent remaining pigment.