Sandstone Head of Buddha
A 17th century Burmese Buddha head, Ava style, made out of a solid piece of sandstone, with a gilded gold face, mounted on a white bronze square base. This information was provided to me at the time of purchase, along with a Certificate of Authenticity, from the Mandalay Gallery in Singapore. Based on my own observations, research, and the reputation of the gallery owner, I believe this item to be authentic and the information provided to me to be true and correct. I would like to receive an opinion and estimate of the item's value from one of your appraisers.
Buddha Head 8"W x 7.75"D x 12.25"H, - Bronze Base 6"W x 6"D x 1.37"H, - Overall Height of artwork incl. stand & height of mounting rod is 17"
Gallery/Dealer
Yes
Hello,
This item is a sandstone Buddha head sculpted in the Ava style, dating to the 17th century and originating from Burma (Myanmar). Created from a single block of sandstone, this piece features a gilded face, giving it a distinguished and radiant appearance, common in Buddhist iconography of the region. Mounted on a modern white bronze square base, the statue is presented in a way that enhances its historical elegance while providing stability. Accompanying the piece is a Certificate of Authenticity from the Mandalay Gallery in Singapore, which attests to its provenance and authenticity, a valuable addition for collectors.
The Ava style, noted for its refined and serene expressions, became prominent during the Ava Dynasty, which played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism and Buddhist art in Burma. This Buddha head captures the spiritual calm and graceful aesthetic of the period, with particular attention to symmetry and balance in the facial features, which are characteristic of Burmese craftsmanship.
Considering the age, style, and condition of the piece, alongside its provenance, the market value for this 17th-century Ava-style Buddha head is estimated to be between $8,000 and $12,000. Prices for similar items have varied, influenced by factors such as historical significance, craftsmanship, and market demand for Southeast Asian religious art.
Best regards,
David
Hello John,
Thank you for your follow-up questions regarding the Sandstone Head of Buddha.
1. Popularity of the Ava Style in Burma:
The Ava style, named after the Ava Kingdom in Burma (now Myanmar), was particularly prominent from the 14th to the 18th centuries, with its peak influence seen during the 17th century. This style is known for its distinct representation of Buddha figures, characterized by a serene facial expression and often a pronounced ushnisha (the topknot symbolizing wisdom). The Ava style spread widely during this period, and its influence can be seen in Burmese sculpture and art.
2. Features Identifying This Piece as 17th Century:
This Buddha head displays key stylistic elements consistent with the Ava style from the 17th century. Notable features include the elongated earlobes, a characteristic of traditional Buddha representations, and the serene, rounded facial contours which were prevalent in Burmese Buddhist art of that time. The ushnisha on top, combined with the smooth, simplified facial expression, also aligns with 17th-century Ava aesthetics, where artisans focused on conveying calm and spiritual wisdom. Additionally, the wear and patina on the sandstone suggest significant age, supporting its 17th-century attribution.
Hello David. Thank you very much for your follow-up information regarding my questions. I'm excited to learn that the stylistic features as well as the patina of this particular item align with recognized 17th century Ava style aesthetics. Your detailed response is greatly appreciated. JD
Hello David U.
Thank you for your appraisal. As a follow-up, I wanted to ask in which years was the Ava style popular in Burma? Also, what particular features identify this item from the 17th century? Thank you for any additional information you can provide. John Douglass