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

Item id: 6597

Larger than life 15thC Thai lacquered and gilded stone head. Previous owner purchased in New York in the 1960's from a Manhattan antique dealer, though he did not have any paper work. Near monumental at over 16 inches for the head alone and 21 1/4 inches total height on its base (I put three 6 inch Thai Buddhas in one photo of the pack of the head to give a perspective of how huge this head is!). Loss and repairs to ears as seen in the photos and some touchup and maintenance of the lacquer and gilding over the centuries (it is possible that the lacquer and gilding is completely redone, though if so, it does not appear recent ). At first I was sure the eyes were modern replacements, upon close inspection, based on the pitting, they may be very old and be cleaned/reattached. Overall, a remarkable survivor for such a large sandstone head. Based on the look of the bottom of the neck, the head was carved separately from the body. Base looks to be from the 1950's or 60's. Could use a coat of black paint or to be upgraded, though it is very stable, functions well, and is a solid piece of teak. Perhaps most important, the face is incredible--powerful, kind, calm. Meant to be looked at from below, as this Buddha would have towered above its devotees, who would have sat at his feet. Special.