Antique Sukhothai Style Standing Bronze Protection Walking Buddha Statue - 50cm/20"

Antique Sukhothai Style Standing Bronze Protection Walking Buddha Statue - 50cm/20"

Measures – (Height) 50cm/20” 

An antique Sukhothai style Walking Buddha from Thailand. In Buddhism, the image of the Walking Buddha, also known as the Walking Enlightenment or the Walking Meditation Buddha, is a powerful and profound symbol. Unlike the seated or standing Buddha images commonly associated with Buddhism, the Walking Buddha carries distinctive symbolism and spiritual significance.

The Walking Buddha invites practitioners to embrace mindfulness, engage in daily life with equanimity, and cultivate the qualities of compassion and wisdom on their path toward spiritual awakening.

Here, the Walking Buddha is depicted as a serene and upright figure, clothed in monastic robes. The Buddha's right hand is extended forward with the palm facing upward, while the left hand remains at the side, often holding a portion of his robe. The posture and gesture convey a sense of purpose and mindfulness.

The Buddha is depicted walking after his enlightenment on a round wood pedestal. 

The large flaming ushnisha protuberance on top of his head, typical of the Sukhothai period, symbolizes his high level of spiritual development.

The most prominent symbolism of the Walking Buddha is the act of walking itself. The image represents the Buddha engaged in walking meditation (kinhin in Zen Buddhism), a practice integral to the Buddhist path. Walking meditation is a deliberate and mindful practice that involves walking slowly and attentively, being fully present in each step. It is a method of cultivating mindfulness, concentration, and insight.

The balanced posture of the Walking Buddha symbolizes the middle path, a core concept in Buddhism. It teaches the importance of avoiding extremes and finding harmony in all aspects of life. The left hand, holding a portion of the robe, signifies modesty and detachment from worldly possessions.

The gesture of the extended hand with the palm facing upward signifies an open heart and a willingness to offer help and support to others. Compassion and empathy are integral qualities of Buddhist practice.

The Buddha has a peaceful countenance with downcast introspective eyes and a firm brow. His earlobes are stretched long from a youth spent as a prince wearing heavy gold earrings.

The casting is beautiful as you can see in the fine details of the face and hands. Each detail is rendered perfectly. The distinctive patina of the piece is also particularly delightful.

The peaceful countenance of Lord Buddha exudes harmony. With his left hand raised the Buddha is stood in the Abhaya mudra "gesture of fearlessness". A mudra (gesture) that offers protection, reassurance and safety. Dispelling fear and according divine protection and bliss in many Indian religions. The left hand is held up and the palm is facing outwards. This is one of the earliest mudras found depicted on a number of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain images.

The sculpture provides the perfect traditional in appearance Buddha to bring serenity and timeless style to your home, office or sacred space.

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