Seated Buddha Made Of Gilded Cast Iron - Southeast Asia - 18th Century

A beautiful antique depiction of the Buddha in gilded cast iron, dating from the 18th century. The sculpture depicts the Blessed One seated in a meditative pose on a tiered base, his legs crossed in the lotus position.

The right hand rests on the knee, fingers pointing toward the ground in the traditional gesture of the Bhumisparsha Mudrā, or “touching the earth,” evoking the moment of the Buddha’s Enlightenment. The left hand rests in the lap, palm facing upward, in an attitude of contemplation.

The face bears an expression of serenity, with half-closed eyes, a slight smile, and long, elongated ears. The hair, styled in small curls, is topped by the ushnisha, a symbol of wisdom and spiritual fulfillment.

The sculpture retains significant traces of its original gilding, now worn away by time, revealing the dark patina of the cast iron in places. These uniform and ancient alterations lend this sculpture an authentic presence and attest to its age.

A devotional work full of nobility, serving both as a spiritual object and a remarkable decorative piece, captivating with the gentleness of its expression and the quality of its patina.

Period: 18th century
Origin: Southeast Asia
Material: gilded cast iron
Subject: Buddha seated in meditation, performing the Bhumisparsha Mudrā
Gilding: traces of original antique gilding
Condition: generally well-preserved; wear, loss of gilding, and antique patina consistent with the piece’s age.

Dimensions:
Height: 21 cm
Width: 15 cm
Depth: 7 cm