Large wooden Ayutthaya Buddha statue

This Thai gilded wooden statue represents the standing Buddha with both hands raised in abhaya mudra, a gesture of protection and appeasement. The delicately modeled face features elongated, slightly drooping eyes, a fine straight nose, and a slight serene smile, characteristic of the late Ayutthaya style. The slender body and simple, form-fitting drapery reflect the elegance typical of Buddhist sculpture from this period. The ushnisha is topped by a finely carved flame, a distinctive mark of royal and processional statues from the late 18th century.

• The Buddha rests on a multi-tiered (attached) octagonal base, decorated with stylized lotus motifs, with traces of ancient gilding applied over a traditional black ground.
• The left hand shows light discoloration, likely an old trace of moisture.
• The bottom of the base shows normal wear; it slightly tilts the Buddha image and can be corrected by placing small felt pads.
• Provenance: Estate of Claude de Marteau
• Sold with certificate of origin.
• H 123 CM X D 40 CM X W 30 CM.

The Buddha Calming the Ocean, an iconography unique to Thailand

This gilded wooden Buddha statue depicts the standing Buddha with both hands raised in abhaya mudra, a posture known in Thailand as Pang Ham Samut, or “Calming the Ocean.” This iconography, unique to the Thai Buddhist tradition, evokes one of the miracles attributed to the Buddha, who is said to have contained the floodwaters of the Nairañjanā River to protect people and convert the Kāśyapa ascetics and their disciples. Beyond the miracle, this gesture symbolizes mastery over natural forces, protection, and the victory of wisdom over obstacles.

The Buddha’s two hands raised in abhaya mudra, an iconography unique to Thailand.

With its serene face, slender body, form-fitting drapery, and the flame crowning the ushnisha, this work belongs to the tradition of the late Ayutthaya Kingdom. The well-preserved gilding over a black lacquer preparation, as well as its significant size, testify to the quality of this cult image, intended for a temple or sanctuary.

The ushnisha is topped by a finely carved flame, a distinctive mark of royal and processional statues from the late 18th century. The face features elongated, slightly drooping eyes, typical of the late Ayutthaya period.

Coming from the Claude de Marteau estate and sold with its certificate of provenance, this sculpture is a remarkable example of Thai religious art from the late 18th century.