Exceptional Buddha head. Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet. XV-XVI centuries.

Exceptional Buddha head. Sukhothai Kingdom, Kamphaeng Phet province. XV-XVI Century.
Bronze . Olive green patina with traces of bronze mineralization, malachite and cuprite.
Good overall condition, despite cracks.
Cracked on the back.
Measurements: 17 cm without base; 23 cm with support.

This is a quality piece, of outstanding execution, appreciable in the fineness of its details. Iconographically, we identify in it several lakshana or specific symbolic signs of the plastic representation of buddhas and bodhisattvas of sacred meaning, such as the eyelids folded, symbol of spiritual concentration and also of purity, for its similarity with the petals of the lotus. The serene and symmetrical face is a symbol of balance and serenity of a perfect being. Finally we also see the elongated earlobes, which allude to the large earrings worn by members of the upper classes and represent the concepts of greatness, nobility and wisdom. The carefully carved headdress is inspired by the shape of a stupa.

The name Kamphaeng Phet means "diamond wall". The city is located in the north of the country. Kamphaeng Phet developed with notoriety during the reign of Li Thaï, in the 14th century. The strategic situation of the city, close to Burma and extending towards the center and north of the country, allowed it to flourish both religiously and artistically. The kingdom of Ayutthaya would later conquer the city, transforming it into a simple garrison post. In the 18th century, the Burmese destroyed most of the city before attacking Ayutthaya.