Indian/Nepal Brass Buddha Statue in Bhumisparsha Mudra (Late 19th Century)
North Indian Brass Buddha Statue (H 39.8 cm)
A finely cast brass Buddha from North India or the Nepal–Bihar border region, late 19th century.
The figure is seated on an ornate double base supported by elephants and Dharma wheels, symbolizing the cosmic foundation of the Buddha’s teaching.
Cast in a high-zinc brass alloy and finished by hand, the surface shows natural oxidation, salt efflorescence, and traces of red sindoor pigment from ritual use.
While once described as “Mandalay-style,” the iconography and construction clearly reflect North-Indian craftsmanship rather than Burmese work.
TAX (TAX2 Summary)
Examination & Methods:
The statue was examined under daylight and magnification to assess the casting structure, patina, and surface deposits. The metal shows a warm brass alloy composition with visible sand-casting texture and light oxidation consistent with 19th-century workmanship.
Surface & Gilding Evidence (Microscopy + Visual Analysis):
No traces of mercury gilding are present. The surface is mechanically polished brass with localized green and white oxidation, confirming natural aging and exposure to humidity over many decades.
Residual red sindoor pigment remains visible on several areas of the figure, identifying ritual devotional use rather than modern restoration. The oxidation and salt crystallization patterns correspond to authentic long-term patina development, not artificial aging.
Casting & Patina Evidence:
The interior displays an irregular sand-cast structure with porous inclusions typical of late-19th-century North-Indian or Nepalese casting. No signs of modern filling or repair materials are visible. The patina is genuine, combining brown-gold coloration with minor carbonate and chloride deposits.
Origin & Dating:
North India / Nepal border region, ca. 1880 – 1910.
The style of the base with elephants and Dharma wheels, combined with the brass alloy composition and sindoor traces, confirms this attribution.
Condition:
Original and stable, with natural oxidation and pigment residue. No later gilding or mechanical restoration.
Valuation (1stbuddha Guidance):
Retail / Replacement Value: € 900 – € 1 200
Based on confirmed traditional casting, ritual pigment traces, and authentic late-19th-century origin.
Indian/Nepal Brass Buddha Statue in Bhumisparsha Mudra (Late 19th Century)
Description
North Indian Brass Buddha Statue (H 39.8 cm)
This remarkable brass Buddha statue exemplifies late-19th-century craftsmanship from North India or the Nepal–Bihar border region. The Buddha is depicted in Dharmachakra Mudra, the gesture of teaching, symbolizing the first turning of the Wheel of Dharma — the moment he shared his insight with the world.
Seated in Dhyana Asana (meditative posture), the Buddha’s hands form a circle at the chest, reflecting balance and the unity of all teachings. His calm features, arched brows, and softly modelled robe embody the elegance of North-Indian devotional art rather than the polished Mandalay style once attributed to such pieces.
The ornate base, supported by elephants and Dharma wheels, conveys strength, stability, and the cosmic foundation of the Buddha’s wisdom. Traces of red sindoor pigment and light salt oxidation remain on the surface, evidence of genuine ritual use and age.
Cast in a high-zinc brass alloy by traditional sand-casting technique, the statue retains a warm golden tone and natural patina formed through time. Measuring 39.8 cm high × 25 cm wide, it was likely created for a temple or private shrine, serving as a focus for meditation and devotion.
This piece unites spiritual meaning with refined artistry — an authentic example of North-Indian Buddhist metalwork from around 1880 – 1910, representing the enduring transmission of the Buddha’s teaching.
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Indian/Nepal Brass Buddha Statue in Bhumisparsha Mudra (Late 19th Century)
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