A BRONZE FIGURE OF BUDDHA, MON-DVARAVATI PERIOD Opinion: Most Buddha bronzes from the Mon-Dvaravati period that have survived are standing images and of considerably smaller size, as is for example the case with the rare seated figure in the Victoria and Albert Museum, see literature comparison. The present large bronze figure of a seated Buddha must therefore be considered as exceedingly rare.

Thailand, 8^th-9^th century. Seated in dhyanasana, with both hands lowered in gyan mudra, wearing a samghati draped over his left shoulder. His serene face with heavy-lidded eyes below thick ridged eyebrows, a broad nose, and full lips, flanked by long pendulous earlobes. The hair arranged in tight curls surmounted by a tall ushnisha.

Provenance: From a distinguished private collection in Milan, Italy. Leonardo Vigorelli, Bergamo, acquired from the above. Leonardo Vigorelli is a retired Italian art dealer and noted collector, specializing in African and ancient Hindu-Buddhist art. After studying anthropology and decades of travel as well as extensive field research in India, the Himalayan region, Southeast Asia, and Africa, he founded the Dalton Somaré art gallery in Milan, Italy, which today is being run by his two sons.
Condition: Superb condition commensurate with age. As expected there is extensive wear, some casting flaws, signs of weathering and erosion, few nicks and shallow surface scratches, a crack along the backside. Fine natural patina overall, with distinct areas of cuprite and malachite encrustations.

Weight: 4,728 g
Dimensions: Height 26.7 cm

Literature Comparison:
Compare a related Dvaravati bronze figure of Buddha, dated ca. 700, 10 cm high, in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, accession number IS.136-1999.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Christie's New York, 16 September 2008, lot 572
Price: USD 32,500 or approx. EUR 44,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A bronze figure of Buddha, Thailand, Mon-Dvaravati, 8^th/9^th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related mudra, facial features, expression, tight curls, and ushnisha. Note that the figure is standing and of slightly smaller size (21.6 cm).