Crowned Buddha

THAILAND

This 16th century Thai Buddha integrates the refined and graceful characteristics of the Sukhothai (circa 1238–1438) style with the masculine approach of Northern Thailand. The statue wears a tall pointed crown with a stylized four-petal flower at the front. This flower motif is also on the armlets, bracelet, and chest ornament. The sides and top of the crown are embellished with pointed leaves that are arranged in an ascending fashion culminating in a stupa-like ornament. The oval face has a tranquil demeanor with slightly opened almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose, and a serene smile. The monastic robe, which is draped over the left shoulder, is smooth and creaseless with the hem of the robe folded neatly over the same shoulder. Seated in the half lotus position on an oval-shaped lotus throne, the Buddha makes the bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra with the right hand, while the left hand rests in the lap.
Inscriptions on the three frontal faces of the pedestal, explain three people created the statue around 1540 and donated it to a temple. It also explains that they hoped the merit gained from this donation will allow them to be reborn together, life after life, so they could accumulate merit together until they attain nirvana.