Sri Lankan Seated Bronze Buddha

This finely cast and engraved image of the Buddha is of bronze. It is in the traditional central Sri Lankan form of the 18th century.

The Buddha sits in the virasana meditation position with legs crossed and both hands resting on the lap in the dhyana mudra pose.

The face is full, rounded and with a tranquil expression. The contours of the body are fleshy and well rounded: this is the body of a well-nourished prince.

The Buddha wears the simple robes of a monk – but has elongated ear lobes indicating his aristocratic family background. There is a flame-like cranial protuberance on the top of the head which is in a typically Sri Lankan form. The hair is etched with curls.

The garment has been cast with thin, undulating pleats that move rhythmically in a zig-zag pattern almost like ripples on the surface of a lake, and a folded lappet.

The Buddha sits on a raised, tiered platform that has been engraved finely with lotus petals.

The image is in perfect condition.