Shakyamuni Buddha seated in meditation (dhyana mudra), - Thailand

Antique Cast Bronze Seated Buddha in Meditation (Dhyana Mudra) – Traditional Lost-Wax Casting

Description
A finely cast antique bronze Buddha depicted seated in the meditation posture (dhyana mudra), with the hands resting in the lap in a gesture of contemplation. The figure is modeled with a serene facial expression, elongated earlobes, and tightly curled hair surmounted by a small ushnisha finial. The robe is shown draped over the left shoulder with a narrow strap crossing the chest, rendered in a restrained and elegant manner.

The Buddha sits cross-legged upon a double cushion lotus base with rounded contours and geometric panel decoration around the pedestal. The sculpture displays clear evidence of traditional lost-wax casting, with a hollow interior and remnants of the original clay core visible within the base. The interior cavity and underside exhibit natural oxidation and mineral deposits consistent with age.

The surface retains an attractive dark brown to black patina with areas of wear revealing the underlying copper alloy, along with traces of green oxidation in recesses. The raised surfaces show smooth handling wear developed over time, particularly on the nose, chest, and knees.

The sculpture represents Shakyamuni Buddha seated in meditation (dhyana mudra). The figure displays classical Buddhist iconography including elongated earlobes, nodular hair curls beneath a small ushnisha, and a monastic robe draped across the chest. The surface shows a naturally developed dark patina and a granular texture typical of traditional clay investment casting. A visible circumferential line around the neck is consistent with a casting seam from the lost-wax process. Stylistically the piece is consistent with Southeast Asian devotional bronzes, most likely from Thailand or Burma, and may date to the 18th century.


Condition is consistent with age, including wear to the patina, corrosion within the interior cavity, and some loss or damage to the edge of the base. The sculpture shows clear evidence of traditional bronze casting techniques. A visible circumferential line around the neck is consistent with a casting seam produced during the lost-wax process when different mold sections meet, rather than a later repair or structural damage. The surface displays a natural granular texture typical of clay investment molds and minimal post-casting finishing, characteristics often seen in devotional Buddhist bronzes. The metal surfaces on both sides of the seam show consistent patina and oxidation, indicating the line is original to manufacture. The figure features classical Buddhist iconography including elongated earlobes, nodular hair curls beneath a small ushnisha finial, and a simple robe strap across the chest, all rendered in a restrained style typical of traditional temple or household devotional sculptures. One section of the lower base lost to time. Despite these imperfections, the figure remains structurally stable and presents well.

A compelling example of a traditional devotional Buddhist bronze sculpture displaying authentic casting characteristics, age patina, and classic meditative iconography.

Material: Cast bronze / copper alloy
Technique: Traditional lost-wax casting
Condition: Age-related wear, interior oxidation, minor losses to base edge, otherwise stable.

Conditions of Sale - Please make sure to examine photos carefully as they are part of the description.

By placing a bid, the buyer enters into a binding contract and agrees to the following terms:

1. Shipment, Delivery & Risk

Delivery obligations are fulfilled upon transfer of the lot to a professional carrier for shipment to the address provided through the Catawiki platform. Official carrier tracking records, including delivery confirmation, delivery attempts, customs notifications, and status updates, constitute conclusive evidence of shipment and delivery progress. Risk transfers to the buyer upon dispatch. Claims of non-receipt that contradict carrier tracking confirmation will not invalidate the transaction.

2. Customs, Refusal & Contract Termination

All import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, brokerage charges, and related governmental assessments are solely the buyer’s responsibility. Refusal to accept delivery for any reason — including refusal to pay customs duties or import charges — constitutes:

• Voluntary refusal of performance
• Material breach of contract
• Immediate termination of the sale in favor of the seller

In such cases, the seller reserves the right to:

• Request full payment release from Catawiki
• Recover all return shipping fees, storage fees, administrative charges, carrier penalties, and related costs
• Apply a reasonable restocking fee where permitted
• Decline any obligation to reship the lot

Returned parcels caused by refusal, non-payment of customs, failure to collect, or incorrect address remain entirely at the buyer’s risk and expense.

3. Condition & Description

All lots are sold “as is” and “as photographed.”

Photographs form part of the description and accurately represent visible condition at the time of listing.

Age-related wear, patina, oxidation, glaze variation, craquelure, firing marks, surface irregularities, minor losses, restorations, manufacturing variations, and material inconsistencies are inherent characteristics of antique, vintage, and collectible objects across all categories and do not constitute defects. The absence of reference to condition issues does not imply perfect condition. No warranty is made that any lot is free from restoration, repair, alteration, or replacement unless expressly stated in writing.

4. Attribution & Opinion

Any statement regarding age, origin, period, maker, material, cultural attribution, or historical context reflects informed opinion based on experience and research. Such statements are not guarantees or warranties. Differences in scholarly opinion, stylistic interpretation, market reassessment, or third-party evaluation do not constitute grounds for cancellation, dispute, or refund.

5. We pride ourselves on taking the time to pack well, however that does not reduce the risk of damage or breakage to absolute zero. Bidding is with this in mind.

By bidding, the buyer acknowledges full acceptance of these Conditions of Sale.