Crowned Buddha Shan / Ava

Crowned Buddha in bhumisparsha mudra, red and black lacquer, Burma (Myanmar). Monoxylous wooden statue, 19th century or earlier.

• Its large ear cabochons reflect the Shan or Ava style. The entire room is covered with Thayo decor.
• The Burmese Thayo technique is obtained by mixing lacquer with wood ash, then using the mixture to roll thin strands. These strands are then decoratively glued to the sculpture and painted.
• H 77 CM X D 25 CM X W 30 CM.
• Provenance: Personal collection of art dealer Claude de Marteau.
• Sold with certificate of origin.

Jambupati Buddha, the king who became a disciple

This carved wooden Buddha statue depicts the Buddha in his Jambupati form, an iconography particularly popular in Burma (Myanmar). Unlike the more common monastic depictions of Buddha statues seated in bhumisparsha mudra, the Buddha appears here adorned with the attributes of a sovereign: a crown, rich ornaments, and royal attire symbolize his spiritual supremacy over temporal power.

The ear plugs and facial features reflect the Shan style

According to Buddhist tradition, the proud and powerful King Jambupati refused to recognize the Buddha’s authority. To teach him humility, the Buddha manifested himself as a monarch of incomparable magnificence. Dazzled by this vision, Jambupati understood the superiority of enlightenment over earthly riches, abandoned his pride, and became a disciple of the Buddha.

Highly prized in Theravada Buddhism, this iconography serves as a reminder that true sovereignty lies not in power or wealth, but in wisdom and enlightenment. Ancient carved wooden representations of Jambupati Buddha remain among the most iconic works of Burmese religious art today.