North Indian Brass Buddha in Bhumisparsha Mudra
Antique North Indian Brass Buddha Statue (37.6 cm) – A finely hand-cast brass Buddha in the Bhumisparsha Mudra, symbolizing enlightenment beneath the Bodhi tree. The statue rests on an ornate double base with elephants and a central earth goddess figure, representing the moment the Buddha called the earth to witness his awakening.
While once described as “Burmese Mandalay,” detailed stylistic and material analysis confirms a North Indian or Nepalese origin, dating to the late 19th century (ca. 1880–1910). Crafted from a high-zinc brass alloy using traditional sand-casting, the surface shows a natural golden-brown patina with traces of red sindoor pigment from ritual use.
Examination & Methods:
The statue was examined under daylight, magnification, and UV illumination to determine surface composition and casting technique.
The alloy shows the warm yellow tone of high-zinc brass, with fine sand-cast granularity and minor oxide pitting consistent with 19th-century hand casting.
Surface & Patina Evidence (Microscopy + UV):
No mercury gilding detected.
The surface reveals a natural brown-gold patina with localized green copper oxidation and white salt efflorescence, indicating long-term exposure and genuine aging.
Residual red sindoor pigment confirms ritual devotional use.
No modern lacquer, paint, or restoration layers observed under UV light.
Casting & Internal Structure:
The interior exhibits a coarse sand-cast texture with porous inclusions and irregular tool finishing typical of traditional North-Indian workshops.
Edges of the base show slight metal contraction lines, proving hand-poured rather than industrial manufacture.
Origin & Dating:
Attributed to North India / Nepal border region, late 19th century (ca. 1880 – 1910).
Iconography (Bhumisparsha Mudra, elephant base, chakra motifs) and alloy composition align with regional Buddhist art from the Bihar–Kathmandu corridor.
Condition:
Excellent structural stability with authentic patina and minor devotional wear.
No modern gilding, filling, or repainting detected.
Valuation (1stbuddha Guidance):
Retail / Replacement Value: € 900 – € 1 200
Based on confirmed late-19th-century hand casting, original pigment traces, and authentic surface oxidation.
North Indian Brass Buddha in Bhumisparsha Mudra
Description
Antique North Indian Brass Buddha Statue (37.6 cm)
This exquisite brass Buddha statue exemplifies late-19th-century craftsmanship from North India or the Nepal–Bihar border region. The Buddha is depicted seated in Dhyana Asana (meditative posture) with legs crossed, his right hand extended in the Bhumisparsha Mudra — the earth-touching gesture that symbolizes the moment of enlightenment, when Siddhartha Gautama called the earth to witness his victory over illusion and desire.
The pose represents unwavering resolve, spiritual awakening, and triumph over inner obstacles.
The statue’s calm expression, refined facial features, and elegantly draped robe reflect the devotional artistry of Himalayan metalworkers rather than the polished Mandalay style once attributed to such figures.
Its ornate double base, supported by elephants and a central figure of the earth goddess, embodies protection, stability, and the universal support of Dharma.
Delicate chakra (Wheel of Dharma) motifs further emphasize the continuity of the Buddha’s teaching and the eternal cycle of enlightenment.
Standing 37.6 cm high and 24 cm wide, this image is hand-cast from a high-zinc brass alloy using traditional sand-mould technique.
The surface retains a natural golden-brown patina, areas of green oxidation, and traces of red sindoor pigment from ritual use — all authentic markers of age.
Its balanced proportions and devotional presence suggest it once served as a shrine statue for meditation and offering.
More than a work of art, this piece embodies the enduring message of enlightenment and compassion.
A refined and authentic example of North-Indian Buddhist sculpture, dating to circa 1880 – 1910, it bridges artistic grace with deep spiritual symbolism.
Key Features:
• Origin – North India / Nepal border region
• Material – Hand-cast brass alloy with natural patina and sindoor pigment
• Period – Late 19th century (ca. 1880 – 1910)
• Mudra – Bhumisparsha (Earth-Touching Gesture)
• Dimensions – H 37.6 cm × W 24 cm
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North Indian Brass Buddha in Bhumisparsha Mudra
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