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Antique Small Wooden Buddha – Kathmandu Valley, 13th–15th Century

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SKU

196

Rare 13th–15th century hand-carved wooden Buddha from the Kathmandu Valley. Meditative posture, traces of pigment, and UV-confirmed ritual use. Height: 15 cm.

€375.00

Disclaimer – Valuation Report

This valuation report has been prepared based on visual assessment, stylistic analysis, and comparison
with similar objects. It represents an expert opinion for informational and documentation purposes only.
Please note: This report is not issued by a certified appraiser and is not intended for use in legal,
insurance, or tax-related matters. It does not constitute an official or court-recognized valuation. While care
has been taken in its preparation, no guarantees are made regarding authenticity, origin, or market value.
For official purposes, consultation with a licensed or accredited appraiser is recommended.

Antique Small Wooden Buddha – Kathmandu Valley, 13th–15th Century

In stock

Description

This rare small wooden Buddha figure, measuring 15 cm high and 10 cm wide (130 grams), is a remarkable survivor of Himalayan devotional art. Dating to the 13th–15th century, it was likely created in the Kathmandu Valley by Newar artisans renowned for their sacred woodcarving traditions.

The Buddha is seated in Bhumisparsha Mudra

(meditation posture), with softened facial features and a prominent cranial protuberance (ushnisha). Despite its small size, the sculpture shows remarkable detail, including a subtle urna (forehead mark) with remaining red pigment visible under magnification.

Technical Highlights:

Hand-carved tropical hardwood
Original pigment traces and natural surface oxidation
UV and microscopic analysis confirm ancient resins and ritual usage
No synthetic coatings or modern tool marks
Cracks and blackening consistent with age and devotional exposure

Stylistic and Historical Context:

The simplicity of the carving, archaic proportions, and surface wear align with other early Vajrayana Buddhist sculptures of the Kathmandu Valley, supporting the 13th–15th century dating. Originally used for private devotion or temple placement, this figure embodies centuries of spiritual significance.

This is an extraordinary piece for serious collectors of Buddhist art, Himalayan sculpture, or medieval devotional objects.