A Fine and Large Burmese Head of the Buddha (1600 to 1700 Burma)

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Dry lacquer on a terracotta core

Provenance: Ex Private London collection acquired in the 1950's in Southeast Asia

His hair arranged in neat rows of curls, the earlobes extended, the neck still with the auspicious three lines, this Buddha radiates a serene earnestness and the still solemnity of composed power. The flame symbolising wisdom which crowns the cranial bump or 'Ushnisha' is now missing, but the sculpture still has a balance of gravity and a naïve power that creates an idyllic vision of the supreme peace. Of all the images of the Buddha this form has remained the most popular in Thailand since at least the 13th century.

A Fine and Large Burmese Head of the Buddha
Composed of a dry lacquer on a terracotta core
Traces of gilding
Late 17th Century

Size: 40cm high, 15¾ ins high – 55cm high, 21½ ins high (including stand)