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Gilded Mandalay Buddha with Shell Inlaid Eyes (47 cm)

AvailabilityOut of stock

SKU

365

A fine Mandalay wooden Buddha from Myanmar, ca. late 19th century. Carved from hardwood, decorated with original gold leaf over red lacquer, and inlaid with glass details. The eyes are inlaid in the traditional manner, and the right hand is inserted separately as is customary in Mandalay workshop production. Solid and impressive presence with excellent age character.

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Material: Carved hardwood with original gold leaf over red bole

Eyes: Natural shell inlaid pupils, hand-painted details

Origin: Mandalay region, Myanmar (Burma)

Period: Late 19th century (ca. 1880–1920)

Condition: Authentic aged surface with stable cracks, original elements intact, no modern reproductions detected

Examination: UV and microscopic inspection confirm traditional gilding and original construction

Gilded Mandalay Buddha with Shell Inlaid Eyes (47 cm)

Out of stock

Description

This authentic Mandalay Buddha statue was carved in Myanmar during the late 19th century, around 1880–1930. The sculpture is made from dense Southeast Asian hardwood and finished with genuine gold leaf applied over a red bole ground, a traditional preparation layer used in Burmese gilding. The surface shows natural, age-related wear that reveals this red base layer in protected areas. These features confirm historical devotional use and not modern reproduction.

The eyes are carefully inlaid using natural shell, creating a calm and lifelike expression typical of Mandalay artistry. The right hand is carved separately and inserted into the arm slot, a classical construction technique used in workshop production for temple images. Under UV and microscopic examination, the gold leaf, ground layers and shell eye inlay all demonstrate authentic age and traditional craftsmanship.

Decorative glass elements remain in the crown and robe, adding sparkle and color to the composition. Natural cracks and patina throughout the wood validate long-term exposure and ritual handling. The Buddha sits in meditation, with well-balanced proportions and a soft facial expression that reflects the spiritual aesthetics of Burmese Buddhist sculpture.

This Mandalay wooden Buddha offers strong visual presence at 48 cm height and 41 cm width. The combination of original gilding, shell inlaid eyes and authentic aged condition makes it a desirable piece for collectors of Southeast Asian art.