Seated on a double-lotus base with the hands in bhumisparsamudra and avajra resting on the base before him, the face serene with downcast eyes and raised urna, the hair over the ushnisha with blue pigment and topped with a jewel finial, the base sealed with a double-vajra 4 5/8 in. (11.7 cm.) high
Details
- Title : A gilt bronze figure of Shakyamuni
- Classification : Sculpture
- Medium : Gilt Bronze
- Country/ Geo-location : Nepal
- Period : 14th Century
- Collection : Christies
- LOT : 311
- Pre-Lot Text : THE BURKHART COLLECTION
- Lot Essay : Often confused with Akshobhya, the representation of Shakyamuni with a vajra resting before him actually refers to the moment when the historical Buddha attained enlightenment. Bodh Gaya, generally accepted as the site where Shakyamuni attained enlightenment, was originally referred to as Vajrasana, and Himalayan sculptors often used the vajra as a visual symbol for this location. As is traditional for representations of this moment in the Buddha's life, he has his hands in bhumisparsamudra, the earth-touching gesture.
- Price realised : USD 8,750
- Estimate : USD 5,000 - USD 7,000
- Provenance : Acquired in Zug, before 2000