18th Century Lopburi Style Bronze Naga Enthroned

Ca. 18th century Lopburi style meditation Buddha, seated on a three-tired throne, with the flaring head of a giant Naga, the serpent King Muchalinda, rising behind protectively behind. His hands are in the Dhyana mudra, the gesture of Medtiation. The Buddha's face is serene, with a naturalistic and warm expression; his head is topped by a detailed ushnisha, in the Baphuon style. The serpent is well rendered and symmetrical. The throne is formed by the coils of the serpent. The story told here being that Muchalinda protected the Buddha from heavy rain. The statue is cast in the round, rather than as a relief on a stela. From this, we can infer that Thai sculptors would have desired their artwork to be viewed from all sides and thus placed in the center of temples rather than against a wall. While this artwork was religious - priests supervised its execution - its realism is unmistakable.
Provenance: Ex- private US Collection.
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Provenance: Private US Collection

Medium: Bronze

Dimensions: 67cm / 27"

General Condition: Good condition. Consistent with age.

SCBR1816
Condition Report: Good condition. Consistent with age.