Buddha in Meditation with Torana

Dimensions: 44 × 20 cm

Nepal, Kathmandu Valley
Bronze with green patina, c. 12th–15th century

Casted bronze Buddha sitting serenely in meditation (dhyana mudra), framed by an elaborately decorated torana (archway). The figure rests on a double lotus pedestal, symbolizing spiritual purity. The hands are held in the gesture of teaching (vitarka mudra), a sign of wisdom and the transmission of the Dharma.

Nepalese bronzes from the Kathmandu Valley are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and synthesis of Pala Indian influences with the distinctive artistry of the Newar sculptors. Such devotional icons were used in both monastic and household shrines, embodying the intimate devotion of Himalayan Buddhism.

The protective torana, with its intricate floral and divine motifs, reflects the Nepalese tradition of blending architecture and sculpture into a single sacred image. Bronze figures like this not only served as focus points for meditation but also traveled across the Himalayas, profoundly influencing Tibetan Buddhist art.

Alaska Crowned Buddha, Myanmar (Burma), 19th century

Dimensions: 40 × 50 cm

Marble, carved and polished

This finely carved marble figure depicts the Buddha in royal attire, seated in meditation with one hand resting gently in his lap. Characterized by the tall, pointed crown and elaborate openwork throne, the sculpture reflects a uniquely Burmese tradition in which the Buddha is portrayed as a universal monarch (Chakravartin). The luminous white marble, a material sourced from the quarries of Mandalay, enhances the sense of purity and serenity, while the refined details evoke the splendor of Burmese courtly art.

Shiva with Attendants

Dimensions: 35 × 25 cm

South India (Tamil Nadu), Chola Period, 10th–12th century
Bronze, lost-wax casting

This bronze ensemble represents the Hindu god Shiva, shown in a graceful standing posture beneath an elaborate arched aureole (prabhavali). Shiva’s powerful yet serene form is adorned with sacred ornaments, emphasizing his divine authority. At his sides stand two attendant figures, likely his consort Parvati and another divine companion, reinforcing his role within the cosmic order.

Cast using the sophisticated lost-wax technique perfected during the Chola dynasty, this work reflects the period’s mastery of balance, proportion, and spiritual expression. Such bronzes were not static temple icons: they were animated in ritual processions, where devotees encountered the deity directly in streets and courtyards.

While primarily associated with South Indian Shaiva traditions, similar compositions were also produced in Nepal, reflecting the deep interconnections of Hindu and Buddhist art across Asia.

Seated Crowned Buddha
Myanmar (Burma), 19th–20th century

Dimensions: 78 × 56 cm
Gilded wood, alabaster, glass inlay, colored stones

This richly adorned image of the Buddha reflects the Burmese tradition of portraying the Enlightened One in royal attire. The serene white face, carved from alabaster, contrasts with the gilded wooden body, elaborately decorated with glass mosaics and gemstones. The tall pointed crown and intricate shoulder ornaments evoke regal splendor, presenting the Buddha not only as a spiritual teacher but also as a universal monarch (chakravartin).

Seated in the earth-touching gesture (bhūmisparśa mudrā), the figure recalls the moment of the Buddha’s enlightenment. Such images were placed in temples and monasteries, serving as both devotional objects and reminders of the fusion of kingship and sacred authority in Burmese Buddhist art.

SIAMESE SEATED BUDDHA in Earth-Touching Gesture
Thailand (or Myanmar), 19th century
Gilded bronze (or wood), lacquered base

Dimensions: 48 × 33 cm

This gilded image of the Buddha depicts him seated in meditation on a lotus-petal base, the right hand extended to touch the earth in the bhūmisparśa mudrā—a gesture symbolizing the moment of enlightenment. The serene expression, finely curled hair, and polished surface embody the spiritual calm central to Buddhist devotion. Such statues are common in temple halls and private shrines across Southeast Asia, where they serve as objects of veneration and meditation.