Description
Carved Buddha figurine from ivory, seated in a traditional meditative posture on a wooden base.
Burma/Myanmar 18th century
The figure represents a seated Buddha, depicted in a Dharmachakra mudra (the hand gesture of teaching or turning the Wheel of Dharma), where both hands are held at chest level with the tips of the index finger and thumb touching.
The facial expression is serene, with closed or gently open eyes, a slight smile, and elongated earlobes—hallmarks of Buddhist iconography.
Hair style: The Buddha is shown with a topknot (ushnisha), symbolizing wisdom and spiritual attainment.
The level of detail and traditional iconography suggest it may have been created for personal devotion or altar use, rather than for export.
The figurine shows age-related cracking and patina, particularly visible on the back and shoulders. This is common in antique ivory or bone due to expansion and contraction over time.
Overall, the carving remains intact, and the wear adds character rather than detracting from its aesthetic or spiritual presence.
This piece is mentioned and published page 21 and 22 in the catalogue of the exhibition Ivoren uit Birma (Ivories from Burma) published by Galerie de Ruimte in Eersel written by Stefan Nies. (see images)
The catalogue will be included in this auction and shipped with the ivory statue.
