Bronze buddha head broken off temple statue?
Clearing out a house for an estate sale and found this Buddha head on a teak stand. The previous owners lived in Thailand in the late 50s/early 60s and brought back quite a few souvenirs, which is where this came from as well. No provenance proof such as an invoice or receipt and no one to ask about it either as the children had no idea it was in the garage in a box. It’s in great shape, just a bit dusty.
Head alone—7 1/2 inches tall and about 4 inches across With teak stand—about 10 1/2 in tall and 4 in across
Other
Yes
Dear Elaine,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This item is a bronze Buddha head mounted on a teak stand. The piece appears to be of Thai origin, reflecting typical stylistic elements found in Buddhist art from Thailand. The head features a serene expression with eyes closed in meditation, a common feature of Buddha depictions, symbolizing enlightenment and inner peace. The head is adorned with a pointed ushnisha, a symbol of wisdom, which is consistent with traditional representations of the Buddha in Southeast Asia.
The bronze is well-preserved, with a dark patina that suggests some age, though it is difficult to determine the exact period without further examination. The piece is finely cast, with attention to detail in the facial features and headgear. The teak stand, which is separate from the bronze head, appears to be a later addition, likely intended to display the piece.
Considering the information provided and the images, the Buddha head may have been produced in the mid-20th century, possibly as a decorative item or a souvenir during a time when such items were commonly brought back by travelers. Without provenance or detailed historical context, it is challenging to ascertain whether the piece has any significant historical value beyond its aesthetic and cultural appeal.
David, I’d say it weighs around 2-3 pounds without the teak base.