Large Burmese Standing Buddha In Pātra-mudrā (163cm)

Imposing Burmese image of the Buddha in lacquered and gilded wood, depicted on its base decorated with stylized lotus petals. His hands in pātra-mudrā, a gesture of acceptance of the offering, once held his alms bowl in which the faithful placed their offerings. Mandalay period, 19th century. Provenance: Claude de Marteau Collection Sold with certificate of provenance. H 163 cm x W 45 cm x D 26 cm Weight: approximately 44 kg The flame is probably not original although it was found attached to the statue in Claude de Marteau's house. Buddhist art is distinguished by its abundant symbolism, its historical richness and its numerous regional variations, each bearing the cultural and spiritual imprint of its place of origin. Among these emblematic expressions is the statue of Buddha with his alms bowl. These sacred images reflect the Theravada (Teachings of the Elders) Buddhist tradition, which emphasizes the preservation of the original teachings of the historical Buddha as well as monastic life (as in the Pali canon) as a path to enlightenment. This posture symbolizes the commitment to a life of humility, discipline, and devotion. Originating from Mandalay, the last royal capital of Burma, this sculpture goes beyond the purely aesthetic dimension: It reflects the fundamental values of Buddhism and testifies to the deep respect accorded to monastic life. Founded in 1857 by King Mindon, Mandalay quickly became a major center of Buddhist culture and spirituality. This city, marked by a strong religious tradition, saw the development of a singular sculptural style, known as the Mandalay style (1853-1948). Flourishing under the Konbaung dynasty (1752-1885), it is characterized by the finesse of its execution, the elegance of its forms and a particular spiritual intensity. Dipankara is represented in the first position, standing, on the right. Sumedha (The future Shakyamuni, is in front of him). In a previous life, Gautama Buddha (Shakyamuni), then called Sumedha, was a wealthy Brahmin who became a hermit. He knelt and spread his long black hair on the ground so that Dipankara Buddha could cross a mud puddle without dirtying his feet. This encounter took place well before the awakening of Sumedha, who would later become Gautama Buddha (Shakyamuni). Bibliography: "Burmese Buddhist Sculpture - The Johan Möger Collection", Otto Karow, White Lotus, p. 152 See this large Burmese standing Buddha in Pātra-Mudrā (163cm) in full screen mode on Vintage Addict