Bouddha Shakyamuni. Birmanie. Ava, troisième (?) période. Fin du 17ème siècle-début du 18ème siècle.

An Ava-period Shakyamuni Buddha. Burma. (3rd?). Late 17th- early 18th century. Seated in padmasana, right hand in bhumisparsamudra, left hand in dhyanamudra. Crafted in ancient lacquer technique. Traces of gilding. Right hand missing. Provenance and certificate: Kyoto Gallery, Tony Cammaert, Brussels, 13.11.1994 The impressive, serene and subtly smiling Buddha is sitting in lotus position on an integrated trapezoidal pedestal and makes the gesture taking the earth as witness (of remaining unmoved by the temptations of Mara, the devil). The clothing falls in a simple fold across the chest. The figure was crafted out in dry lacquer, a very ancient technique that allowed the realization of strong but light sculptures. To do this, pieces of fabric soaked in lacquer were applied to a roughly modelled core, which was then removed after the lacquer hardened. Afterwards, coatings were applied and details were finalised. H.: 110 cm