Buddhist Figure

Carved from a single block of teak, the figure is seated with the right hand descending toward the knee, fingers extended downward, and the left hand resting in the lap. The torso remains upright and vertically contained, the transitions between chest, abdomen and crossed legs forming a compact, uninterrupted mass. The head is aligned above a cylindrical neck, the facial features symmetrically organised with inlaid eyes and a straight nose. The rounded ushnisha rises above the cranial mass and is surmounted by a tapering flame finial. Five elephants form a continuous circular support beneath the platform. Their bodies are compressed into repeating vertical units, while their projecting heads establish the perimeter of the base. Each elephant is individually carved with curling trunks and incised ornamental detailing that reinforces the rhythm of the supporting structure. Between the elephants and the seated figure, a carved platform forms an intermediate register, articulated with incised motifs.

Surface is compact and stable. Gilding is retained across the figure; exposure at projecting elements shows underlying lacquer. Incised details retained across the base and platform.

Figures of this type function within Buddhist devotional and temple contexts. The posture corresponds to the Maravichai — the gesture of calling the earth to witness.

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand, 1983.

Title

Buddhist Figure

Origin

Thailand

Date

Sukhothai–Ayutthaya period (c. 13th–15th century)

Dimensions

H 63 cm (24.8 in) · W 23 cm (9.1 in)

Medium

Carved teak wood with lacquer and gilding

Provenance

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand, 1983.

Condition

Gilding retained; exposure at projecting elements; underlying lacquer present.