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Thai Gilt
Bronze Buddha Statue
Sukhothai
Buddha
Siam,
circa: 15th century
H
12 in.(30.5cm.), W 7 in.(18cm.), D 4.5 in.(11.5cm.)
MEASUREMENT
INCLUDING WOOD BASE IS 14" H
Condition: damage
to pedestal, crack line on neck |  |
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Private Collection
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A
rare Sukhothai gilt bronze Shakyamuni Buddha sits with legs crossed, right hand
in the bhumispara mudra, the "calling the earth to witness" gesture, left hand
in the mudra of meditation. This posture symbolizes the union of method and wisdom,
samasara and nirvana, and the realization of the conventional and ultimate truths.
It was in this posture that Shakyamuni overcame obstructions while meditating
on Truth, transforming delusions into mirror-like wisdom. The power of this classic
Sukhothai Buddha is in its imperturbable trance-like quality, in which the weathered
surface of the gilded bronze appears suffused with the glow of an inner light.
The Sukothai or Sukodhaya Style flowered in the 12th-14th Century when an independent
tradition arose that defined Thai art styles which continue to this day. The unique
vision of Sukhothai art lies not in the invention of novel forms, but in its completely
harmonious perception of realism. | | | |
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