Standing Crowned Buddha in Abhaya Mudra
Sculpture, free-standing • Thai artisan workshop, possibly Northern Thailand or Bangkok school influence
Style & Movement
Thai Rattanakosin / Buddhist Art
Medium & Technique
Hand-carved wood with dark pigment and possibly lacquer finish
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th Century (Rattanakosin period style)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24-30 inches in height including base; vertical portrait orientation
Subject Description
A standing crowned Buddha depicted in the 'Abhaya Mudra' (gesture of dispelling fear) with both hands raised. The Buddha is adorned in royal attire (Song Khruang), featuring a tiered ushnisha (head ornament), elaborate collar, and decorative waist sash. This iconography represents Buddha as a Universal Monarch.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair; stable but showing signs of surface wear and possible age-related shrinkage
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely acquired as a decorative or devotional object in the mid-20th century. No visible labels or stamps are present in the image.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the late traditional Thai style where the Buddha is depicted with royal regalia, reflecting the syncretic nature of Thai kingship and Buddhist divinity. While likely a later production for the export or devotional market, it maintains traditional iconographic proportions.
Notable Features
Detailed carving of the royal jewelry and the distinctive 'double abhaya' mudra, which is a common feature in Thai Buddhist statuary signifying the 'Calming of the Ocean' or 'Forbidding the Relatives from Fighting.'
Condition Issues
Surface abrasions, dust accumulation in deep carvings, minor cracks consistent with wood desiccation, and possible loss of original gilding or lacquer finish.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning with soft brushes; maintain in a humidity-controlled environment to prevent further wood cracking; avoid direct sunlight to preserve remaining pigments.
Collector Notes
Wooden