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Nepalese Fire-Gilded Bronze Buddha Pair – Early 20th Century (lot 457)

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457

A rare matched pair of Nepalese fire-gilded bronze Buddhas, crafted in the traditional Newar style of the Patan workshops. Each figure is seated in meditation with one hand raised in Abhaya Mudra, symbolizing protection and reassurance. Traces of original mercury fire gilding remain visible beneath the naturally darkened surface, creating a deep contrast typical for devotional Nepalese bronzes of the early 20th century.

Height: 18.5 cm

Width: 13 cm

Total weight (pair): 3.2 kg

Material: Bronze with original fire gilding

€2,250.00

TAXATIE / VALUATION

Object: Pair of Nepalese Fire-Gilded Bronze Buddhas

Origin: Nepal (Patan workshop tradition)

Period: Late 19th – Early 20th century

Material: Bronze with mercury fire gilding

Condition: Structurally sound, original gilding traces preserved, natural oxidation consistent with age

Weight: 3.2 kg (pair)

Market Position:

High-quality Nepalese atelier work with original gilding and clear manual finishing.

Estimated Private Market Value (EU):

€2,500 – €3,800 (for the pair)

This valuation reflects preserved original gilding, authentic Newar workshop characteristics, and balanced condition without modern restoration.

Nepalese Fire-Gilded Bronze Buddha Pair – Early 20th Century (lot 457)

In stock

Description

This refined pair of Nepalese bronze Buddhas originates from the Newar metalworking tradition of Patan, Kathmandu Valley. Each sculpture is seated in dhyana posture, with the right hand raised in Abhaya Mudra — the gesture of protection — and the left hand resting in meditation.

The figures retain substantial traces of original mercury fire gilding, particularly visible in the facial features, eyelids and recessed decorative panels. Over time, the gilded surface has developed a natural dark oxidation layer, producing the characteristic deep gold-to-bronze contrast associated with early Nepalese devotional bronzes.

The detailed square-panel robe decoration on the reverse shows clear hand-engraving marks, confirming individual manual finishing rather than modern industrial casting. Subtle asymmetries and tool traces are consistent with workshop craftsmanship.

The casting is solid and substantial for its size, with a total combined weight of 3.2 kilograms, indicating serious atelier production rather than lightweight tourist export work.

These sculptures likely date to the late 19th to early 20th century, a period in which Patan workshops produced high-quality devotional bronzes both for local religious use and for early collectors.

A rare opportunity to acquire a harmonious and authentic Nepalese Buddha pair with preserved original gilding.

Dimensions (each):

Height: 18.5 cm

Width: 13 cm

Material: Bronze with original fire gilding

Origin: Nepal, Patan region

Dating: Late 19th – Early 20th century