Buddha Statue - Antique Thai Style Standing Bronze Teaching Dvaravati Buddha Statue - 106cm/42" Tall

Buddha Statue - Antique Thai Style Standing Bronze Teaching Dvaravati Buddha Statue - 106cm/42" Tall

Measures (Height) 106cm/42"

An antique Thai, 11th century style bronze standing Buddha in the Dvaravati style.

The artistry of Dvaravati Buddha statues, hailing from the ancient region of Dvaravati in Southeast Asia, stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry that once flourished in this historical landscape. Characterized by a distinctive style that exudes grace and serenity, these statues encapsulate the spiritual and artistic essence of a bygone era.

Dvaravati was an ancient civilization that thrived in parts of present-day Thailand from the 6th to the 11th centuries. The region witnessed a synthesis of various cultural influences, including Indian, Khmer, and Mon, giving rise to a distinctive artistic tradition that found expression in sculpture, architecture, and religious practices.

This imposing Buddha is standing samapada, straight legged on a wood base. He is clothed in monastic dress composed of two traditional elements, an undergarment consisting of a long piece of cloth draped around the hips, and a long loose robe that covers both shoulders. 

The clothing sensuously hugs the body revealing the anatomy beneath, a drapery style inspired by early seventh century Thai Dvaravati styles that can be traced back to styles in Gupta period India.

The hair is depicted in circles of tight curls that decrease in size toward the ushnisha. The facial expression radiates serenity and compassion.  The face has half closed cast down eyes that suggest an inner meditation, convey an inner tranquility. While the gentle curve of the lips suggests a compassionate and benevolent presence through a rather sensuous mouth and a barely dimpled chin.

Typical of the Dvaravati art this Buddha exhibits meticulous attention to symmetry and proportions. Buddha statues from this tradition exhibit balanced proportions, with each element carefully measured to convey a sense of harmony and poise.

Although the style resembles Dvaravati images carved in Thailand, the present Buddha is more sensuous than most Dvaravati Buddhas. The Buddha here is an appealing blend of Gupta, Dvaravati and Khmer characteristics.

Here the Buddha is posed in the double Dharmachakra or Teaching mudra. 

The Teaching Buddha, also known as the Dharmachakra Mudra, is a central and revered image in Buddhism. This iconic representation of the Buddha carries profound meaning and symbolism within the context of Buddhist philosophy and practice.

The Buddha is stood in a state of meditative serenity with both hands raised in front of his chest in the dharmachakra mudra. In sanskrit dharmachakra means the 'Wheel of Dharma'. This mudra symbolises one of the most important moments in the life of Buddha, the occasion when he preached to his companions the first sermon after his Enlightenment in the Deer Park at Sarnath. It therefore denotes the setting into motion of the Wheel of the teaching of the Dharma. In this mudra the thumb and index finger of both hands touch at their tips to form a circle. This circle represents the Wheel of Dharma, or in metaphysical terms, the union of method and wisdom.

The Teaching Buddha, with its iconic gesture of turning the wheel of Dharma, encapsulates the essence of Buddhist philosophy and practice. It represents the Buddha's profound realization of the nature of suffering and his compassionate mission to guide others toward liberation.

The symbolism of this image serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for Buddhist practitioners worldwide, reminding them of the path of wisdom, compassion, and inner transformation that leads to the ultimate goal of enlightenment and liberation from suffering.

Provenance: Ex- private London Collection. All items are guaranteed to be as described. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases upon request.

This traditional in appearance piece is sure to add serenity to your home, office or sacred space. One of the most recognisable of the Asian deities this representation of the spiritual teacher Buddha is sure to enlighten your home with endlessly timeless style.

Please note - Our price includes wood crating.

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