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Antique Thai Style Seated Bronze Naga Meditation Buddha - 53cm/21"
Measures (Height) 53cm/21"
An antique Thai Sukhothai-style bronze meditation Buddha. Here the Buddha is seated in the ardhapadmasana or half-lotus pose on a three-tiered throne formed by the coiled body of the great Naga, the serpent king Muchalinda. Rising dramatically behind him, the flaring multi-headed Naga shelters the Buddha, its hood spreading protectively over his head.
According to tradition, Muchalinda emerged to shield the Buddha from a violent storm as he meditated in the days surrounding his enlightenment. In Thailand this image is known as Phra Naga Prok – the Protection Buddha – and it is especially associated with those born on a Saturday. This powerful motif unites calm inner stillness with strong outer protection, making it a favourite form for personal shrines and temple sanctuaries.
The Buddha’s hands are placed in Dhyana Mudra, the gesture of meditation, with both hands resting in his lap, palms upward, right hand over the left. This mudra symbolises deep contemplation, perfect concentration, and union with higher wisdom. The Buddha’s face is serene and composed, with a warm, naturalistic expression that suggests inner peace and unshakable calm.
His head is crowned by a finely detailed ushnisha in a style reminiscent of Bayon and related Khmer-Thai aesthetics, adding a regal and elevated quality to the figure. The Naga itself is crisply modelled and symmetrical, its heads and scales carefully articulated to convey both grace and power. The interplay between the still Buddha and the dynamic serpent enhances the statue’s dramatic presence.
The sculpture is cast fully in the round rather than as a shallow relief, indicating that it was intended to be viewed from all sides. This suggests it may originally have stood free in the centre of a shrine or temple space rather than against a wall. While deeply devotional in nature – and likely created under priestly supervision – the piece displays a striking realism and sensitivity to anatomical form and movement.
The rich patina of the bronze softens the surfaces and adds depth and character, hinting at the age and long veneration of the piece. Subtle variations in tone across the Buddha and the Naga enhance the sense of volume and invite close inspection of the fine details.
Traditional in appearance yet visually compelling, this Sukhothai-style Naga Buddha is sure to bring a sense of serenity and protection to your home, office, or sacred space. It offers both an evocative focal point for meditation and a timeless link to the spiritual and artistic heritage of Thailand.
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We genuinely hope that all purchases delight.
However, if they do not, regardless of reason, we will refund all orders upon receipt of the unwanted item. Just notify us within 14 days of receiving your order that you wish to make a return and send the piece back to us with 30 days of delivery.
