Large Mandalay Wooden Buddha Sculpture with Mirror Inlay and Red Lacquer

Estimated value: €3.000 – €4.500

When I encountered this sculpture, it immediately stood out for its presence. Many old Burmese wooden Buddhas have lost parts of their lacquer and gilding over time, but only a few retain such a strong and balanced expression. This figure still carries the calm authority that defines the best Mandalay temple sculptures.

The Buddha is depicted seated in bhumisparsha mudra, the earth-touching gesture marking the moment of enlightenment. The posture is stable and grounded, with broad shoulders and a composed facial expression that gives the sculpture a serene yet powerful character.

This type of Buddha originates from Burma (Myanmar) and belongs to the Mandalay sculptural tradition of the 19th century. The figure was carved from solid hardwood and originally finished with multiple layers of red lacquer and gold leaf. Small mirror glass pieces were carefully set into the robe decoration, a traditional Burmese technique designed to reflect candlelight and oil lamps around the statue in temple settings.

Although parts of the lacquer and gilding have worn away over time, the remaining surfaces reveal the layered history of the sculpture. The visible wear, traces of lacquer and surviving mirror inlays all point to a devotional object that has been used and appreciated for many decades.

What convinced me to acquire this piece for 1stBuddha was the combination of scale, weight and sculptural presence. With its large size and substantial weight, this is not a decorative object but a true temple sculpture with character and history.

Dimensions: H 80 x W 70 cm

Weight: 31.6 kg

Material: Carved hardwood with lacquer, traces of gilding and mirror glass inlay