Sri Lankan Brass Buddha, 18th century

Brass Resting Buddha

This relatively uncommon cast brass image of the resting or recumbent Buddha (parinirvana) has been produced in three parts: the sleeping platform, the Buddha image, and the backplate which is attached to the sleeping platform.

The Buddha image is typical of the Kandyan Period form of the 18th century. The robes are long and straight but are incised all over with wavy lines, the right shoulder is bare, and the

unisha or cranial protuberance is in the flat, flame form associated with Sri Lankan renderings of the Buddha. The right arm is folded to give the head extra support. The head is rounded and there is a lack of neck rings – something with the Guardian (2003, p. 134-5) recognises as one of two distinct stylistic groupings of Buddha images from this period.

The polished, rich-yellow colour of the brass is also typical of many ir not most eighteenth century Sri Lankan brass images of the Buddha, which tended to be kept polished rather than left to darken.

The sleeping platform has been constructed in several parts. The backing plate has three prongs which slots into three holes in the platform. The long, round bolster pillow for the head has been cast separated and is riveted to the platform with copper rivets. There is also a low foot pillow which also has been attached by copper rivets. The long, rounded bolster is reminiscent of Dutch bolsters and may derive from the Dutch colonial and trading period. Its end is etched with a lotus pattern, which matches petal and other motifs engraved over the sleeping platform.

Overall, the image is in fine condition. There are no losses, breaks or repairs.