An excellent find and an uncommon piece to encounter in the US market. The Buddhapada, representing the footprints of the Buddha, originates from Myanmar (Burma) and was brought back from Mandalay on one of two trips made between 1996 and 2002. The traditional gold leaf technique is Shwe-zawa: many layers of organic Thit-si lacquer are built up over a solid wood core, burnished deeply, then a gold leaf pattern is transferred into the final coat with the relief polished away. The contrast is striking and immediate.
The panel is quite large at nearly 18" x 11" and depicts both feet, many examples show only one. The composition is traditional and the execution clean throughout, making it well-suited for respectful display.
The panel depicts the 108 auspicious symbols (Mangala) traditionally associated with the soles of the Buddha's feet in Burmese Buddhist iconography. The Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma) occupies the center of each sole, with conch shell motifs at the toes. Among the individually rendered symbols, recognizable figures include the White Elephant, the Hamsa bird, and the Golden Fish, each carrying its own significance within the tradition. The precise meaning assigned to the full composition varies across Buddhist schools and regional practice; serious students of the tradition will find much to contemplate here.
This panel will be cleared of errant fingerprints and wrapped in acid-free archival tissue, padded in foam, and backed with rigid protection front and rear to prevent flexing in transit. Typically ships within one business day via USPS or FedEx. Rates to Alaska and Hawaii may differ; please message for a quote. International shipping available through eBay's Global Shipping Program.