Burmese bronze Jambupati Buddha

• Ancient bronze image of the Jambupati Buddha. Burma, Shan States, 18th / 19th century
• H 23 cm x W 9 cm x D 6 cm
• Weight 824 grams
• Provenance: Estate of Asian art dealer and collector Claude de Marteau
• Sold with certificate of origin.

Burmese bronze Jambupati Buddha

The Jambupati Buddha, also spelled Jambhupati, is a specific representation of the historical Buddha. He is depicted here in bhumisparsha mudra, the earth-touching gesture, in an adorned iconography associated with the theme of the “King of Kings”.

This form is particularly revered in Theravada Buddhism, especially in Burma. According to tradition, Jambupati was a powerful and proud king whom the Buddha brought to humility by revealing the vanity of earthly power in the face of wisdom, compassion, and impermanence.

This royal iconography thus expresses the spiritual transformation of the sovereign: the prestige, ornaments, and princely appearance do not only celebrate power, but also serve as a reminder of its transcendence through Buddhist teaching.

The sculpture features an elegant brown patina mixed with verdigris, brought to life by numerous remnants of gilding, which highlight the ancient and devotional character of the object.