Antique Burmese Style Bronze Shan Enlightenment Seated Buddha Statue Elephant Pedestal - 61cm/24" Measures (Height) 61cm/24" Antique Shan style Buddha statue from Burma. The statue is based on a Jambupati Buddha image of the Burmese Shan-type dating to the 17th-18th century. The Buddha wears costly royal jewellery. Under the royal jewellery the Buddha wears a monk's robe, the border of which falls over the left arm. The Buddha, which for the most part corresponds to the characteristics of the bronze Jambupati type, wears a traditional Shan-diadem with tall pointed ushnisha. The diadem is exquisitely decorated all around with sacred trees of life. The Buddha has elongated earlobes and wears heavy piercing horn earrings. The Buddha is formed of two interlocking parts and is seated on an elephant throne. The bodies profile is with broad shoulders and slender waist. He has a peaceful countenance with downcast introspective eyes and a firm brow. His earlobes are stretched long from a youth spent as a prince wearing heavy gold earrings. The Buddha is seated in the Bhumisparsa or 'Calling the Earth to Witness' mudra. With fingers slightly touching the ground this position represents the subduing of Mara (a demon) who bombarded Buddha with demons, monsters, violent storms and the three seductive daughters. Remaining steadfast the Buddha testified to his meritorious past by pointing to the earth and calling the Earth Goddess, Thorani. Rising from the ground the Earth Goddess wrings the water from her long black hair. By this action she raises a torrential flood that drowns Mara and his army of demons. This gesture reflects this story symbolizing enlightenment, as well as steadfastness and Buddha's achievement of perfection or nirvana. The casting is beautiful as you can see in the fine details of the face. Each detail is rendered perfectly. The distinctive azurite and malachite patina of the piece is also particularly delightful. The peaceful countenance of Lord Buddha exudes harmony. The sculpture provides the perfect Buddha to bring serenity and timeless style to your home, office or sacred space. SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering SE Asian Art for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.