A family member was a soldier that served in Vietnam war. He brought back a Buddha statue after the war around 1971. Soldier was in all parts of Asia so it is unknown what part of Asia he purchased this in. Found in his home by his kids after his death in 2016.
12 September 2025
Description

This is a heavy Buddha statue in the seated meditation posture, wearing robes and seated on a lotus pedestal. The statue appears to be cast in bronze or brass. Possibly has a gold finish. The base is hollow, and on the inside there are several bright red lacquer-like dots. 1. Can you confirm whether this statue is likely Nepalese or Tibetan in origin? 2. Do the red markings inside the base indicate ritual consecration or filling? 3. Is the statue likely modern decorative, vintage, or antique? 4. Is it possible this has a gold finish? 5. What is the estimated resale value for this piece in today’s market (auction or gallery)?

Dimensions

Height: 10.5 inches • Width: 6 inches • Weight: 10.5 inches

Acquired from
Inherited
For sale
Yes
Answered within 3 days
By David U.
Sep 15, 15:22 UTC
Fair Market Value
$200 - $400 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Hello, this item is a cast metal statue of the Buddha in seated meditation posture, wearing flowing robes and resting on a lotus pedestal. Based on the gilded surface and casting style, it is most likely made of brass or bronze with a thin applied gold-colored finish. The hollow base shows red lacquer-like marks, which are commonly seen in ritual Buddhist statuary from Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand or Vietnam, rather than Nepal or Tibet. The general form and details suggest it was produced during the mid-20th century, probably as a devotional or export piece rather than an antique temple statue.

In the current market, statues of this type are widely collected but their value depends heavily on confirmed age, region, and quality of casting. Given its size (10.5 inches tall), hollow construction, and finish, this example would be classified as a vintage mid-20th century Southeast Asian Buddha image rather than a rare antique. At auction or gallery resale, similar statues usually achieve between 200 and 400 USD, with higher prices possible for documented provenance or finer craftsmanship.

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