Click to view image and other views
Country Group: South and Southeast Asia (Thailand, Burma, Laos, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam)
One-of-a-Kind 14th–16th Century Nagapattinam Standing Indian Bronze Buddha
A rare and exceptional example from Nagapattinam, closely related in both geography and period to the celebrated Chola bronzes. While Chola bronzes are predominantly Hindu, this impressive sculpture represents the Buddhist tradition of the same region—an equally important but far less frequently encountered school of South Indian metalwork. Nagapattinam Buddha bronzes of any size are uncommon; examples over 8–10 inches are exceptionally rare. Figures of this monumental scale—this one standing 20 inches tall (or 21.5 inches with its custom base)—are virtually museum-only pieces. A search through online auction archives confirms that no Nagapattinam bronze of comparable size has appeared at Sotheby’s or Christie’s since their digital records began.
The figure measures 20" tall (bronze only), 21.5" tall with base, 11" wide at the base, and 6" wide at the hands. Condition is excellent, with a beautifully even, untouched patina covering the entire surface. One fingertip is missing, and the base has a few small holes; an expert who examined it suggested the base may have been made slightly later than the figure, as it is not quite as finely finished as the sculpture itself. A truly significant South Indian bronze—museum-level, extremely rare, and unmatched in size and presence. The starting bid represents a 50% reduction from the original bottom-line price.
Send to a Friend
Inquire About this Product
Serach Settings