Sino-Tibetan 24 kt mercury gilding Bronze Buddha

Description

This finely crafted fire-gilded bronze Buddha is a representative work of Sino-Tibetan artistry from the 17th century. The Buddha sits in Dharmachakra Mudra — the gesture of teaching — symbolizing the first turning of the Wheel of Dharma. His calm expression, softly modelled features, and engraved robe patterns reveal the stylistic synthesis of early Qing-dynasty Chinese influence and Tibetan iconography.

The surface retains traces of original 24 kt gold leaf, applied using the traditional mercury-amalgam fire-gilding technique, resulting in a deep, warm golden tone and fine crystalline texture. Microscopic examination shows granular casting pores, embedded oxidation residues, and authentic age-related surface structure, with no modern polishing.

UV analysis highlights natural green-blue fluorescence inside the base cavity — typical of aged copper oxides and salt mineralization formed over centuries. The interior retains its rough sand-cast core and shows no evidence of modern coatings or restorations.

Standing at 19.5 cm high and weighing approximately 900 grams, the statue was likely intended for a temple or monastic altar. The engraved circular symbols on the robe emphasize its ritual function and symbolic depth, marking it as both a devotional and artistic object of lasting importance.