Large Gilt Bronze Thai Standing Ayutthaya Buddha - 18th Century

This exceptional Thai Ayutthaya period (1351-1767AD) standing bronze Buddha dates to the 18^th century. Unusually large, both hands are raised in abhaya mudra dispelling fear & anxiety. The face is tranquil with beautifully carved serene features as he stands atop a lotus pedestal. His earlobes are elongated symbolising the princely life of luxury Buddha led before casting off all worldly possessions upon his spiritual awakening. 

This Buddha is black lacquered bronze with some remnants of original guilding and red lacquer on the base. Remnants of wai phra offerings, squares of gold leaf can be seen on the shoulders. He is supplied with a later turned hardwood stand. 

The Ayutthaya kingdom existed from 1351-1767AD in modern day Thailand. The city of Ayutthaya was once the largest & most cosmopolitan city in the world. With its wealth, it became a hub for trade with citizens from China, Vietnam, India, Persia, Japan, Portugal, Netherlands, France & Spain all trading within its walls. Earlier Ayuttaya Buddhas show strong Khmer influences whereas Buddhas & temples from the second half of the Ayutthaya period were more influenced by Sukothai style like this one. 

A similar larger example can be found in The Victoria & Albert Museum and various similar examples have sold at Christie's auction in London. 

Condition & Provenance:

This piece is in relatively excellent condition with gilding loss expected with its significant age. The ushnisha (the finial atop his head) has been long lost and has an old replacement. This is the case for almost every Buddha of this age. The Buddha has been reaffixed to the base at some point. Please contact us to discuss the exact repairs carried out. 

From Thailand

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