BRONZE GILT BUDDHA HAND IN VITARKA MUDRA
Himalayan, probably late 19th/early 20th century

16 7/8" H x 8" D x 7" W (base diameter 7 5/8")

A gilt-bronze fragment of a Buddha or Bodhisattva, the hand is modeled in the vitarka mudra. This precise gesture of teaching and intellectual discussion is formed by the thumb and forefinger joined together with the remaining fingers extended. The surface retains traces of gilding, worn through in areas to reveal a mottled patination in a chaotic mix of deep brown, verdigris and a gentle red-oxide. The hollow construction and clean separation at the wrist indicate that the fragment may have once been a part of a larger devotional statue of significant scale.

The hand is presented on a brand new custom fabricated base, the mount comprised of a solid brass armature with cherrywood insert and turned cherrywood plinth that respectfully utilized only existing holes in the wrist to affix to the cherrywood insert.

Condition: Wear consistent with age, scattered losses to gilding, areas of pitting and obvious tarnish/oxidation; base and mount in perfect condition. Ready to place.

ref. 507GYO28Z