Early Nepalese Bronze Buddha — ca. 1150–1250 (49.5 cm)
A large and exceptionally well-preserved early Nepal bronze Buddha from the 12th century, standing 49.5 cm high. The sculpture retains its original lotus throne, early Himalayan modelling, and stable ancient patina. A rare temple commission from the period 1150–1250, complete and fully consistent with high-grade early Nepalese bronze work.
TAX3 valuation report – Early Nepal Bronze Buddha (12th century, 49.5 cm)
Examined with museum-grade analytical methods under daylight, polarized light, UV illumination and high-magnification microscopy. All structural, casting and surface characteristics correspond to early Nepalese bronze production of the 12th century. The Buddha and lotus throne are cast separately in the traditional manner and joined through an early Himalayan method with deep, stable oxidation and no indication of modern welding, repair or reconstruction. Stylistic analysis confirms early Nepal features: elongated facial proportions, narrow eyes, a smooth ushnisha with vertically modelled hair strands and restrained robe modelling typical for the transitional Pala to early Newar period. The double-lotus base with figural panels is original to the figure and consistent with early Himalayan workshop practice. Surface examination shows natural ancient patina, mineral deposits in recesses and residual gilding traces; internal cavities reveal early copper-alloy oxidation with stable mineralisation. No modern polishing, chemical patina or tooling is detected.
Material: copper-alloy bronze with remains of original gilding
Technique: two-part lost-wax casting with early Himalayan join; hand-modelled surface and original monastic base
Period: 12th century, approximately 1150–1250
Region: early Nepal, Kathmandu Valley, transitional Pala–early Newar tradition
Condition: complete; original base; stable ancient patina; no modern additions or interventions
1stbuddha retail valuation: € 260 000 – € 380 000
Early Nepalese Bronze Buddha — ca. 1150–1250 (49.5 cm)
Description
This early Nepal bronze Buddha dates to the 12th century and represents one of the refined sculptural traditions that developed in the Kathmandu Valley during the transitional period between late Pāla influence and the rise of early Newar craftsmanship. At 49.5 cm, the figure belongs to the rare group of large-format temple bronzes that were produced only for monastic settings and major religious commissions.
The image is cast in two traditional sections: the Buddha and the lotus throne. The junction between both parts shows an early Himalayan joining method with deep, stable oxidation that confirms the long, uninterrupted age of the sculpture. No signs of modern intervention or reconstruction are visible, and both elements clearly form an original ensemble.
The Buddha displays the calm proportions characteristic of early Nepalese work. The face is gently elongated, with narrow eyes, a balanced nose and a soft, composed mouth that reflects the serene expression of early Valley bronzes. The ushnisha follows a pre-Malla modelling tradition, with vertical hair strands rather than later decorative curls, indicating an early date within the 1150–1250 period. The robe is rendered in a restrained manner, typical for this phase before Newar ornamentation became more elaborate.
The lotus throne is original to the figure and reflects early Himalayan workshop practice. The double-lotus arrangement, with its thick petals and broad central platform, is a feature associated with 12th–13th century Nepalese and Himalayan bronzes. The lower frieze contains figural panels with animal and human motifs, carved in a manner consistent with early Nepalese temple sculpture. The modelling, surface texture and natural wear across the entire base match the upper figure, confirming long-term unity and authenticity.
The surface retains an untouched ancient patina with darkened copper tones, mineral deposits in recesses and residual traces of the original gilding. These features are consistent with centuries of natural ageing and monastic use. The sculpture’s presence, weight and completeness align it with the higher tier of early Nepalese bronzes, which survive only in limited numbers.
Height 49.5 cm.
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Early Nepalese Bronze Buddha — ca. 1150–1250 (49.5 cm)
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