Pair of Buddhas. Laos. Luang Prabang, XVII-XVIII century.

Pair of Buddhas. Laos. Luang Prabang, XVII-XVIII century.
In carved teak wood.
Measurements: 180 cm. and 200 cm. height.

Two monumental Buddhas in teak wood, a very appreciated material in Southeast Asia for its resistance and durability against the humid climate of the region. One of them is represented in a gesture of absence of fear and protection, "Abhaya mùdra". This gesture evokes the episode in which Buddha was attacked by an angry elephant in the streets of Rajagarha. The animal, known for its bad temper, came from the stables of Ajatasatrù, king of Magadha. He had been intoxicated at the instigation of Devadatta, the evil cousin of Buddha, who wanted to kill him. But the elephant, on arriving before the Master, was subdued by his serenity, stopped short and knelt before him to pay homage. The one on the left is represented as "Civarahasta mùdra", a frequent posture in countries practicing Theravada, especially in Thailand and Laos. The Gotama (or Gautama) Buddha holds the monastic robe slightly raised or extends his hands towards the ground, palms facing the body.

Both sculptures, of large size, not only fulfilled a devotional function, but also a pedagogical one, by transmitting through codified gestures the values of Buddhism. The monumentality of the pieces suggests that they may have been destined for an important temple or monastery in Luang Prabang, the nerve center of Buddhism in Laos.

The wear of the wood and the natural patina that covers the surfaces do not detract from the strength of the sculptures; on the contrary, they reinforce their historical and spiritual character, evoking centuries of worship, veneration and transmission of the teaching of the Dharma.