Indonesian, Circa: 19th century
H 9 in.(23cm), W 7 in.(18cm), D 6.5 in.(16.5cm)
Condition: very good!
Light
falling upon on this piece creates a soft sheen that brings alive the fleshly,
sensual carving. Overall the patina has darkened to a rich chocolate color. In
the creases and folds of the features, tones of ochre, gold and green have bloomed,
enriching the depth of the linear elements and adding to the almost moist appearance
of the face; projecting a calm and austere presence, a sense of its original splendor. This
magnificent head of Buddha once belonged to a seated figure. It is possible that
the piece is indeed a sculpture from Borobudur, or it may come from Pranamban
or Kedu regions. The work conforms to the Borobudur style and is in accord with
texts that say the face of the Buddha “should be made squarish in form, sharply
delineated, beautifully full and endowed with brilliant and pleasing marks.” Here
the gentle and serene countenance, the hair arranged in short circular locks curling
to the right, the urna fashioned as a prominent dot in the middle of the forehead
and the elongated earlobes, the entire style and the surface establish this bronze
as dating from the eighth to the tenth century. It is cast in three pieces and
finished with a file, marks of which can be seen, with traces of gilding remaining.
-- R.W.