Country Group: South and Southeast Asia (Thailand, Burma, Laos, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam)

Item id: 5539

Rare Early Burmese Crowned Buddha, Arakan Type Bronze, 5.75 Inches



A very fine and exceptionally rare early Burmese bronze Buddha of the Arakan type, distinguished by its crowned form—an unusual feature seen only a handful of times in surviving examples. Standing 5.75 inches tall, this figure embodies the classic characteristics of the Arakan tradition: a rounded, softly modeled face with childlike, almost infantile features; gently arched brows; and a serene, introspective expression that conveys both innocence and spiritual calm.



The Buddha sits in meditation, the hands arranged in a traditional gesture, while the tall, tiered crown and flame-like finial rise prominently above the head, adding rarity and presence to the piece. The surface retains traces of its ancient patina, intermingled with subtle remnants of earlier gilding, giving the figure a compelling, time-worn beauty.



Arakan bronzes of this type are scarce, and crowned examples especially so—only two or three comparable pieces have been personally encountered by the consignor over decades of collecting. This figure represents a strong, well-preserved example of an important and early Burmese sculptural tradition, and would make a notable addition to any serious collection of Southeast Asian Buddhist art.