A large bronze head of Buddha

THAILAND, SUKHOTHAI, 15TH CENTURY

Details

A large bronze head of Buddha
Thailand, Sukhothai, 15th century
Finely modeled with prominent chin, gentle smile, and elongated eyes flanked by pendulous earlobes, the hair in loose snailshell curls over the ushnisha
19½ in. (49.6 cm.) high

Provenance

Collection of Mr. Joseph E. Lizzadro, Chicago, acquired in Hong Kong, late 1950s-early 1961
By descent to present owner, 1972

Sale room notice

Please note the provenance for this lot is as follows:
Collection of Mr. Joseph F. Lizzadro, Chicago, acquired at Parke Bernet, London, 31 March 1967, lot 316
By descent to present owner, 1972

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Lot Essay

Buddhist art produced during the Sukhothai kingdom (1238-1438) of North-Central Thailand displays a remarkably cohesive style. During this "Golden Age" of Thai art, the kingdom's Theravada affiliation inspired the production of serene Buddha figures standing, seated, and walking. The faces are characterized by an oblong shape with full cheeks and ears flared slightly at the tips, and the heavy-lidded eyes angle slightly towards the nose to reinforce the interior nature of the gaze. The present example displays the classical Sukhothai style without sacrificing the unique artistry that imbues the features with grace.

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