Statue (1) - Gilt bronze - A THAI GILT-LACQUERED BRONZE OF “Phra Malai” - Thailand - Rama VI (1910-1925)

Description Seated in dhyanasana on an elaborate stepped base, his hands in bhumisparsamudra, his robe draped over the left shoulder, the face showing a meditative expression with downcast eyes, arched eyebrows, and a subtle smile, flanked by long earlobes, the hair tightly arranged in small spikes. this representation of bouddha is “Phra Malai” “Phra Malai” is a buddhist monk of the “Theravada” tradition said to have attained supernatural powers through his accumulated merit and meditation; he was able to fly up to the heavens or down to hell and to return to earth. In Thai art “Phra Malai” figures were very popular, often showing the compassionate monk stand holding a buddhist fan or teaching the hell-beings about Karma… Datation Early 20 th century - C. 1920 Condition: Good condition with wear, some losses to gilt all visible on detail pictures