Amitabha Buddha statue from Java - Bronze - Indonesia - Late 20th century

Antique Indonesian-style bronze statue of a seated Amitabha Buddha.

Height 22.5 cm
Width 17.5 cm
depth 12 cm

This charming Buddha is seated on a double lotus pedestal, in the adamantine vajraparyankasana pose, the right leg over the left, with the soles of both feet facing upward. His robes are draped over both shoulders, and a part of the garment covering the left wrist falls behind the figure. The lower hem of the robe is fully unfurled so that the undergarment or skirt is completely covered.

The seated Buddha is placed on a pedestal of lotus petals, which itself rests on a decorated square pedestal. The hands of the Amitabha Buddha are held in a mudra. The fingers barely touch and fold gently on the knees with the palms facing upward, which represents gentleness and purity.

In his hands, he holds an alms bowl, demonstrating the charitable association and the generosity of the Buddha. His eyes are dark, his compassionate face grants him peace, blessing, and inner serenity for his devoted followers.

The Buddha Amitabha symbolizes mercy and wisdom. Tantric meditation on Amitabha is an antidote to desire. He rules over Sukhavati (the Western Paradise), also known as the Pure Land. Those who return to the Pure Land experience the joy of hearing Amitabha and study the Dharma until they are ready to enter Nirvana. The Buddha is supported by a mandala wheel and a halo with a beaded border and a flame-like edge, topped by a lotus finial. This symbolizes his divinity.

There is a third eye or urna on his forehead symbolizing Buddha's ability to see beyond our world of suffering. The large protuberance of the ushnisha on the top of his head symbolizes his high level of spiritual development.