Thai Bronze Buddha – Sukhothai-ayutthaya Tradition, 16th Century

Large Thai bronze Buddha, attributed to the Sukhothai-Ayutthaya tradition and dated to around 1500–1650. The figure is seated in the bhūmisparśa mudrā—the gesture of touching the earth to attest to Enlightenment—on a double lotus pedestal.

The slender modeling, supple proportions, and serene expression correspond to a transitional phase between the late Sukhothai and early Ayutthaya periods. A frontal panel with a textile motif on the base reinforces this regional attribution.

Examination of the surface and observation under ultraviolet light revealed traces of gold leaf in the protected areas. The open underside shows traditional lost-wax casting, with casting plugs and a partially preserved core. The interior exhibits ancient oxidation, mineralization, and salt deposits, as well as the remains of an ancient resinous and waxy sealant used to close the ritual openings. Stamped numerals, added at a later date, are visible on the interior; their meaning has not been established.

Cast bronze, ancient gilding partially preserved. Stable condition with wear, oxidation, and loss of gilding consistent with long-term ritual use; no modern restoration is documented.

Height: 72 cm. Width: 48 cm. Weight: approximately 14.2 kg.
Reference / SKU: 161.