Chinese Bronze Buddha with Internal Core and Export Seal – 19th Century

Description

Chinese Bronze Buddha with Internal Core and Export Seal – 19th Century

This highly authentic Chinese bronze Buddha statue dates back to the 19th century and was crafted using the traditional lost-wax casting method. The figure sits in serene meditation (Karana Mudra) and bears the characteristic calm, symmetrical features of Qing-dynasty Buddhist sculpture.

The statue is hollow inside, retaining parts of its original casting core, composed of traditional sand, lime, and mineral elements. A rare hardened wax or resin seal embedded in the hair above the forehead indicates that the statue likely received official export clearance around the late 19th to early 20th century — a very rare and collectible feature.

Technical Highlights

• Height: 33 cm

• Width: 25 cm

• Weight: 4 kg

• Material: Bronze

• Technique: Hollow lost-wax casting (cire perdue)

• Surface: Natural aged patina, hand-finished, no modern coatings

Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning

• Special Attributes:

  • Export seal – a rare historical feature indicating cultural importance

  • Original casting core – authentic construction, untouched by modern restorations

• For:

  • Deepening meditation, strengthening spiritual insight, honoring heritage

• Traditional Use:

  • Likely a temple or domestic shrine figure, later authorized for export as a culturally significant item

Condition

• Core Material: Original sand and mineral core intact

• Surface: Naturally aged patina with minor historical wear

• Special Note: Faint fluorescence under UV light suggests trace gilding remnants

• No modern repairs, no synthetic infills