252 - Shakyamuni Buddha in gilded lacquered copper alloy, China, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), 17th century

Shakyamuni Buddha in gilded lacquered copper alloy, China, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), 17th century Depicted seated in the padmāsana posture on a lotus-shaped base with a double row of petals, the Buddha is shown with his hands in the varada mudra. He is clad in a monastic robe (kāṣāya) with flowing folds that leave his right shoulder bare, in accordance with an iconography widely prevalent during the Ming Dynasty. The face, with half-closed eyes and framed by long, drooping ears, is adorned with small, even curls topped by an ushnisha. The sculpture retains a thick coating of reddish-brown lacquer accented with gilding, revealing the underlying metal in places. The pedestal consists of a double lotus resting on a slightly flared base, with the petals rendered in high relief. The consecration plaque is present. Height: 16.5 cm Some wear to the lacquer; an old inventory label is affixed to the consecration plaque.