Gilt Bronze Jambupati Buddha – Burma, circa 1700

Gilt bronze Buddha Jambupati or Jambhupati, Myanmar, 17th-18th century.

Late Nyaungyan dynasty (1599-1752) or early Konbaung period (1752-1885).

Dimensions: H 26 cm × W 9 cm × D 5.5 cm.

Provenance: former Claude de Marteau Collection.

Shakyamuni, Universal Sovereign and King of Kings

This iconography of the Buddha adorned with royal attributes is particularly associated with Burmese art, where it is linked to the theme of Jambupati, sometimes interpreted as the “King of Kings” or the “Conqueror of Jambhupati”.

According to tradition, the sovereign Jambhupati, proud of his temporal power, threatened to annex the kingdom of Bimbisara at Rajagaha (Rajgir, India). Bimbisara then sought the help of Shakyamuni, who miraculously caused a palace of supernatural magnificence to appear. Seated on a jewel-covered throne, the Buddha manifested himself in the aspect of a Universal Monarch surpassing all earthly authority. Upon witnessing this vision, Jambhupati was overwhelmed by the splendor of the spectacle and immediately converted.

This notion of cosmic sovereignty occupies an important place in the religious conceptions of Southeast Asia and is also reflected in the sacred architecture of the region.

Jambupati featured in “The Sensuous Immortals” by P. Pal

The figure is depicted seated in padmasana on a stylized double-tiered lotus throne, in bhumisparsha mudra, the earth-touching gesture. The Buddha wears a tall openwork crown, rich jewelry, and princely garments whose pectoral bands recall the ornaments of Burmese sovereigns.

The earliest representations of crowned Buddhas appear in eastern India, but this spectacular headdress belongs more specifically to the Burmese repertoire, where it develops from the late Pagan period in reliefs and murals.

Provenance: Former Claude de Marteau Collection

Sold with certificate of origin.

Bibliography:

• The Sensuous Immortals, P. Pal, p.197
• Burmese Buddhist Sculpture, The Johan Möger Collection, p.58-59