| Antique
Siam 24K Gilt Bronze
Ayutthaya
Buddha
Sea Calming Rattanakosin Buddha
Thailand,
circa: 19th century
H 21.5 in(55cm), W 5.5 in(14cm), D 5.5 in(14cm)
Condition: Finial break, no other damage 
According
to old belief, the Buddha’s skin was the color of gold, and the rays of his fiery
energy were so intense that his true form could only be seen by means of prolonged
meditation. This statue is an instrument for such realization; it is heavily gilded
and richly ornamented with colored glass stones in the base and garments, the
armbands, bracelets and anklets. Flames rise on all four levels of the base, up
the center of the robe, and at the shoulders and lower terminals of the crown.
The Buddha’s austere countenance seems to smolder and glow, highlighting the smooth
roundness, the full features and numinous smile of perfect bliss. The hands are
in the mudra of “calming the sea, ” a gesture unique to Thai iconography. Sold
To Private Collection |  |
