Southeast Asia, Laos, ca. 19th century CE. Carved from a single piece of wood and beautifully embellished with gilding and red lacquer, a Buddha presenting the Bhumisparsha Mudra (earth touching or calling the earth to witness) sitting on a tiered pedestal (the uppermost delineated with carved lotus leaves), with a meditative expression. Atop the head is a stupa-shaped "flame" finial or ushnisha symbolizing the realization of Nirvana. The impressive artistry of this piece suggests that it was probably created for a family shrine. Size: 10.25" L x 5" W (26 cm x 12.7 cm)

This sacred figure wears a traditional sanghati with simple pleats and a long, central sash to the waist, presents a tranquil visage with closed eyes and a gentle smile, with characteristically elongated ears, and a pronounced flamed ushnisha which represents the spiritual intensity of the Buddha. A bit of history on Buddhism in Laos - Buddhism was introduced to Laos as early as the first millennium CE, but was not widely practiced until the late 13th century. Buddhism was established as the state religion by founder of Lane Xang (1353-1371) but the worship of animist spirits continued to predominate for centuries. By the 17th century, Buddhism was taught in Laotian schools.

Provenance: private Boulder, Colorado, USA collection acquired at Indochine Gallery, Boulder, Colorado, USA

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#128582

The seated Buddha was carved separately and fits perfectly into the pedestal. Normal surface wear with expected gilt and lacquer loss, though much remains. Tiny loss to tip of flame finial. Felt pads on underside of base.