Posted By: Gman
Posted Date: Dec 17, 2010 (01:54 AM)
Hello,
That is an interesting piece, however I am doubtful whether it is a portrayal of Buddha, though certainly Buddhist, the man's headcovering resembles that of a Tibetan monk.
Based on the size, I am wondering if it may have been a piece from a Buddhist themed chess set.
Another possibility is that it is a seal.
A good place to start is by getting some macro close-up photos of the hallmarks stamped into the rim of the bottom of the statue, it looks as if there are at least 4 hallmarks.
Those hallmarks may be helpful in determining the age, the maker, or perhaps when the piece was imported into another country such as Great Britain.
I would avoid over-cleaning or polishing the piece, as you may lose important details.
Refer to the owners manual for your camera for the best way to take macro close-ups, usually a button with an icon which looks like a tulip.
Pushing the macro button tells the camera you intend on focusing on minute details.
Also a good idea to learn to use your camera's timer so that you can pose the item, focus the camera accordingly with the camera sitting on the table, and take the photo without shaking the camera.
Also a good idea, is to turn off your camera's flash, and instead use a flashlight which you can use to illuminate the hallmarks.
At any rate I think you will have fun and also get much more detail and clarity in your photos, which will only make your studies of this statue easier.
Cheers
Gman
