Antique Chinese White Marble
Shakyamuni Buddha
In Wish Granting Gesture
Late Qing Dynasty, circa: 19th century
h.12 in.(30cm.) X w.5 in.(12.5cm.) X d.4 in.(10cm.)
Condition: Good

Shakyamuni, the historic Buddha, is seated on a lotus throne, his simple robes gathered in broad equal folds around him. He sits in the diamond posture, his right hand upraised in Abhaya mudra, the gesture of “no fear“, his left hand in Varada mudra, the boon-granting mudra. In keeping with the character of Shakyamuni there is no jewelry or ornamentation. The youthful face is delicately detailed with curved lips, rounded cheeks and eyes gazing down. Over the years the white marble has turned a pearly grey which still sparkles in the light. A sense of austerity, a stillness and purity that was valued in the white translucent stone over many years of use and contemplation can still be felt. Considering the mineral deposits on the surface, it is likely that this Shakyamuni graced an outdoor shrine for many years.

Private Collection