Burmese Polychrome Wood Buddha On An Elephant Throne – Mandalay, Circa 1900

Burmese Buddha carved in wood, lacquered and polychrome, with remains of gold leaf, dating from the late 19th to the early 20th century, circa 1890–1910. This sculpture from Burma (Myanmar) combines features of the Mandalay and Shan traditions and is raised on a base decorated with elephants.

The Buddha is seated with the right hand lowered toward the earth in the bhumisparsha mudra, the gesture of Awakening. The robe is edged with finely worked motifs, while the elephants around the pedestal distinguish this composition from a simple lotus throne.

The figure is carved from a block of tropical hardwood. Layers of black and red lacquer, white preparation and remnants of gilding remain visible in worn areas.

Condition: wear to the polychromy and gilding, old patina and stabilized shrinkage cracks. A collection documentation examination file is referenced under BUR-WOOD-57-2026.

Height: 57 cm. Width: 24.5 cm. Weight: 7.2 kg.
Reference / SKU: 518.