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Massive Bronze Seated Buddha – Ladakh, India – 18th Century

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Large 18th-Century Ladakh Buddha – Fire-Gilded Bronze – 87 cm, 41 kg

Authentic Himalayan Buddha from Ladakh, India (ca. 1750–1800). Made of fire-gilded bronze, seated in teaching posture on a lotus base. Museum-worthy piece with exceptional presence.

€18,750.00

Disclaimer – Valuation Report

This valuation report has been prepared based on visual assessment, stylistic analysis, and comparison
with similar objects. It represents an expert opinion for informational and documentation purposes only.
Please note: This report is not issued by a certified appraiser and is not intended for use in legal,
insurance, or tax-related matters. It does not constitute an official or court-recognized valuation. While care
has been taken in its preparation, no guarantees are made regarding authenticity, origin, or market value.
For official purposes, consultation with a licensed or accredited appraiser is recommended.

Massive Bronze Seated Buddha – Ladakh, India – 18th Century

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Description

Massive Bronze Seated Buddha – Ladakh, India – 18th Century

This monumental Buddha statue was created around 1750–1800 in Ladakh, a Tibetan Buddhist region in northern India. Hand-cast from bronze using the lost-wax technique, this 87 cm high, 61 cm wide, and 41 kg heavy sculpture is a rare devotional object made for temple or monastery use.

The Buddha is seated on a fully integrated lotus pedestal, with the left hand in dhyana mudra (meditation gesture) and the right hand in vitarka mudra (teaching gesture). These mudras represent the fusion of inner tranquility and enlightened guidance — a powerful spiritual message preserved through centuries.

Originally fire-gilded, the statue retains remnants of gilding inside and in protected zones, as confirmed by microscopic analysis. The surface shows natural oxidation, porosity, and uncleaned age patina, supporting its authenticity and long-standing use in a Himalayan spiritual context.

Symbolism & Spiritual Function

Dhyana Mudra (Left Hand): Symbolizes meditation, spiritual focus, and inner stillness
Vitarka Mudra (Right Hand): The gesture of teaching and the transmission of knowledge
For the Spirit:
- Brings wisdom, serenity, balance, and spiritual clarity
Against:
- Ignorance, fear, chaos, and spiritual stagnation
Traditional Use:
- Placed in monasteries, shrine halls, or public temples as a symbol of Buddha’s presence and teachings

Statue Specifications

Height: 87 cm
Width: 61 cm
Weight: 41 kg
Material: Bronze (fire-gilded, partially preserved)
Style: Ladakhi / Himalayan Buddhist
Origin: Ladakh, India
Age: ca. 1750–1800
Construction: Hollow lost-wax casting, separate arms, no restorations

Collector’s Note

This is not a reproduction or modern decorative object — it is a museum-grade bronze Buddha, crafted in 18th-century Ladakh for genuine religious use. Its massive size, surviving fire-gilding, and undisturbed internal condition (spiderwebs, dirt, natural oxidation) confirm its authenticity and value.

See our guide to antique Buddha statues.

More on Ladakh bronzes: read the full study.