Buddha. Kampaeng Phet, Thailand, 15th century.

Buddha. Kampaeng Phet, Sukhothai area, Thailand, 15th century.
Bronze.
Intense green excavation patina.
In good general condition.
Measurements: 3 x 13 x 6 cm. 25.5 cm. height with pedestal.

Sculpture of a seated Buddha in the posture of the lotus flower, from Kampaeng Phet. He performs a mudra symbolizing that he takes the earth as a witness. The symmetry of his physiognomic features express serenity, the closed eyelids indicate meditation, the elongated earlobes symbolize nobility and wisdom. The headdress or Ushnisha, carefully carved, is inspired by the shape of a stupa with a flaming top, symbol of enlightenment. The bhumi sparsha mudra ('gesture of touching the Earth', being bhumi: 'the planet Earth'; and sparsha: 'to touch') represents the moment when Buddha solved the problem of ending suffering when he was under the Bodhi tree. Usually depicted by the historical Buddha and seated in the lotus position, as in this bronze. The right hand touches the ground with the fingertips; the left hand rests on the leg with the palm facing up.