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13. Buddharaja Thailand Lopburi, circa 1200 AD Bronze, cast in the lost wax method height 24 cm. |
The name Rajadhiraja means ‘King of Kings’ and was given to important crowned Buddha images. The ornamentation alludes to the early phase of the historical Buddha’s life, when he lived as Prince Siddharta, son of a wealthy ruler. Buddha is also a universal monarch who manifested himself in the heaven to Bodhisattvas. Another legend tells how Buddha appeared as a king in all his royal splendour in order to convert King Jambhupati, who had threatened to annex the kingdom of Bimbisara. The people of Bimbisara appealed to Buddha, who in turn overwhelmed Jambhupati with his magnificent palace and majestic appearance. The Buddha’s hands are raised in abhayamudra, the gesture of removing fear, with the wheel of the Buddhist law displayed on each palm. On his forehead is the urna, the sign of illumination. A beautiful engraved crown covers his head and ushnisha; his other jewellery consists of an elaborate necklace and heavy ear pendants. Buddha’s body and shoulders are covered with a well constructed sanghati which falls to his ankles. The lower part is decorated with finely delineated flowers, pearls and ornaments. The bronzes made in Lopburi represent a continuation of the Khmer style. They are hallmarked by grandeur and dignity and are part of the great historical legacy of Khmer civilization. The Phra Sam Yod or ‘Three-Spired Sanctuary’, made of laterite, is located in the heart of the Lop Buri province. The architectural style shows the influence of Khmer art. This sanctuary dates back to the 13th century, when the Bayon school was initiated. The present bronze bears all the characteristics of the Lopburi style. As exemplified by his upright posture, this crowned Buddha is executed with beautiful proportions and finely delineated details. The figure is well cast and complemented by a natural greenish patina creating a surface to be compared with a jade gem. The inspired facial expression enhances the presence of a gracious divinity, an embodiment of serenity, wisdom and compassion. Provenance: Private collection, USA. Art Loss Register Certificate, Reference S00017517. J. Boisselier, La Sculpture en Thailande, 1974, p. 115. S. Van Beek & L. Invernizzi Tettoni, The Arts of Thailand, 1985, p. 96. J. Menzies, Buddha Radiant Awakening, Art Gallery NSW, 2001, p. 62, fig. 44. Lopetcharat Somkiart, Thailand, A History in Buddha Image, I, 2006, p. 380. |