Nepalese Buddha In Gilded Bronze – Newar Art, 18th–early 19th Century

A Nepalese bronze Buddha with traces of fire gilding, from the Kathmandu Valley. Dating from the 18th to the early 19th century, this sculpture belongs to the Newar tradition. The figure sits on a tall pedestal with two rows of lotus petals.

The right hand extends downward toward the earth in the bhumisparsha mudra, a gesture of calling the Earth to witness the Enlightenment. The left hand holds a bowl resting in the lap. The modeling of the face, the half-closed eyes, and the hairstyle of small curls give the figure a contemplative expression.

The work is cast in the lost-wax technique using a copper alloy and finished by hand. Traces of the original gilding remain in the protected areas. The open underside reveals the internal structure and mineral deposits.

Condition: complete and stable sculpture, with natural wear, patina, and partially preserved gilding. The examination report finds no modern coating in the inspected areas.

Height: 41 cm. Width: 26 cm. Weight: 6.3 kg.
Reference / SKU: 423.