Authentic antique gilt-iron Buddha statue, crafted in Burma (Mandalay region) circa 1890–1920.
This exceptional piece was part of a world-traveler collector’s estate, renowned for assembling one-of-a-kind antiques and Burmese devotional art gathered during decades of travel across Asia.
The figure depicts the Buddha in the Bhumisparsha Mudra (earth-touching gesture) seated upon a lotus base. The body is solid sand-cast iron, finished with gold lacquer and red ground, typical of Mandalay-period craftsmanship.
When gently tilted, fine sand grains emerge from the cracks, confirming the traditional sand-casting process used in 19th-century Burmese temples.
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🔹 Details
• Origin: Burma / Myanmar (Mandalay region)
• Period: Late 19th – early 20th century (c.1890–1920)
• Material: Solid iron (sand-cast) with original gold lacquer / gilding
• Technique: Traditional hand casting over sand core
• Pose: Bhumisparsha mudra – Earth-Touching Buddha
• Height: 8 inches Tall, 5 inches wide, 3.5 Depth approximately
• Weight: Heavy, solid cast metal 3pound 13.4oz
• Condition: Structurally stable with visible oxidation, open cracks, and loss of gilding consistent with authentic age.
When tilted, small amounts of sand may emerge from fissures—an expected characteristic of old sand-cast iron figures.
• Provenance: From the estate of a world-traveling collector who curated museum-quality Burmese and Asian antiques.
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🔹 Highlights
• True antique Mandalay-period Buddha, not a modern reproduction
• Rare iron casting (most later examples are bronze or brass)
• Retains traces of original gilding and lacquer over red bole
• Exhibits natural rust, gold wear, and sand residue—hallmarks of age and authenticity
• Ideal for serious collectors of Asian art and Buddhist sculpture
Note: It has long crack line as seen on photos, sold As Found! Last photo show the sand sample come out the crack line.
Location: MB Rack1