Shakyamuni Buddha, Ladakh (Western Tibet), ca. 1650–1750 — Tin-Rich Fire-Gilt Bronze, 29 cm
Authentic Ladakh bronze of Shakyamuni Buddha, ca. 1650–1750.
Cast in tin-rich alloy with remains of original 24 kt fire gilding applied by mercury-amalgam technique.
Seated in Bhumisparsha mudra on a sealed double-lotus base containing original ritual filling.
Height 29 cm. Examined with museum-grade analytical methods (UV & microscopy).
Material: Tin-rich bronze with traces of 24 kt fire gilding.
Origin: Ladakh / Western Tibet.
Period: ca. 1650–1750.
Height: 29 cm.
Examined with UV and microscopic methods confirming original casting and sealed base.
Retail valuation (1stbuddha guidance): €9 500 – €13 500.
Shakyamuni Buddha, Ladakh (Western Tibet), ca. 1650–1750 — Tin-Rich Fire-Gilt Bronze, 29 cm
Description
This 17th–18th century Himalayan bronze represents Shakyamuni Buddha seated in meditation, the right hand touching the earth in Bhumisparsha mudra.
The piece was produced in Ladakh / Western Tibet during a period of strong Newar influence from Kathmandu workshops.
The metal is a tin-rich bronze that has naturally aged to a silver-grey patina. Traces of original 24 kt fire gilding, applied by the traditional mercury-amalgam process, remain visible in protected recesses.
The sculpture is hollow-cast by the lost-wax method, showing authentic vent marks in the head and base from the original casting. The double-lotus is fully sealed, with audible traces of the original ritual filling still inside. Under 365 nm UV light the surface shows the complex blue-green fluorescence typical of aged Himalayan alloys, with no evidence of modern lacquer or repair.
Facial features—soft eyes, refined mouth and calm expression—reflect Newar craftsmanship interpreted in a Ladakh setting. The stepped plinth motif beneath the ankles symbolizes the axis mundi, a feature shared with Nepal–Zanskar bronzes of the 17th century. Overall preservation is excellent, with honest wear to gilding and untouched ancient patina.
More on Ladakh bronzes: read the full study.
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Shakyamuni Buddha, Ladakh (Western Tibet), ca. 1650–1750 — Tin-Rich Fire-Gilt Bronze, 29 cm
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