Tibetan Bronze Buddha With Traces Of Gilding – Himalayas, 19th Century

Seated bronze Buddha in the Tibetan/Himalayan tradition, 19th century, retaining traces of its original gilding. The figure rests on a double lotus; the left hand rests in the lap, and the right hand extends toward the ground in the Bhumisparsha mudra.

This gesture refers to the earth as a witness to the Buddha’s enlightenment. The robe covers one shoulder, revealing the slender contours of the torso. The open base reveals a hollow cast with an irregular interior, contrasting with the exterior finish.

The surface was previously cleaned and heavily polished over large areas. Microscopic examination revealed, in the recesses and protected areas, ancient patinas, traces of manual work, localized oxidation, and small remnants of a gilded metal layer. Our attribution to the 19th century is based on a combined study of the style, construction, and these surfaces, and not solely on the color of the bronze.

Original condition with prior polishing and cleaning, significant wear on the finish, scratches, dark deposits, and localized oxidation. Without material analysis, the traces of gilding do not allow us to confirm the presence of mercury. Microscopic photographs supplement the general views.

Height: 20 cm. Width: 15 cm. Weight: 1.2 kg. Reference: 725.