Tibeto-Chinese Bronze Buddha Statue
Shakyamuni
Bestowing
Wish Granting Pearl
Origin:
China, circa: 19th-early 20th century
H
19.5 in.(50cm), W 12.5 in.(32cm), D 10 in.(25cm)
Condition: very good Dragons
on his knees a left hand upturned in a gesture of compassion (dhyana). This masculine
Buddha of Tibeto-Chinese origins closely resembles a Medicine Buddha, holding
a wish granting pearl between his thumb and middle fingers; a gesture of offering.
His left hand is upturned and resting on his lap, a possible resting place for
an urn of healing water. The aged bronze is light beige in color, which gives
the metal a beautiful reminiscent of weathered stone, deeply etched ornamentation
bringing to life foliage, clouds, and the movements of dragons. A key pattern,
known in Chinese as a ‘Thunder motif’, horizontally wraps around his partially
covered chest.
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The
domed usnisa surrounded with finely shaped snail cures. On the Buddha’s forehead
is a yang shaped urna, perhaps a reference to the yang dragon, who according to
Chinese legend is the ancestor of all mammals. A unique piece that raises interesting
connections between different Chinese and Tibetian beliefs about Buddha, weather,
and dragons; and brings them together beautifully. A thick, lotus themed double
plinth supports the sitting Buddha. In excellent condition. Private Collection
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