Buddha Statue - Antique Thai Style Sukhothai Enlightenment Buddha Statue - 54cm/22"

Buddha Statue - Antique Thai Style Sukhothai Enlightenment Buddha Statue - 54cm/22"

Measures - (Height) 54cm/22"

An antique Thai-style seated Sukhothai Buddha from Thailand.

The Sukhothai Buddha statues represent one of the most celebrated forms of Buddhist art in Thailand, originating from the Sukhothai Kingdom, which flourished between the 13th and 15th centuries. Their graceful and distinctive style reflects the spiritual and cultural ethos of this golden era of Thai history.

Emerging during a time of artistic innovation and deep religious devotion, Sukhothai Buddha statues embody both spiritual symbolism and national identity. They served not only as sacred icons for worship but also as powerful expressions of the kingdom’s artistic achievement and refined aesthetic.

The face of the Sukhothai Buddha is characterized by a gentle, serene expression and a subtle smile that conveys inner peace and compassion. Typical features include a broad forehead, arched eyebrows, downcast almond-shaped eyes, a prominent nose, and softly contoured lips that suggest quiet joy.

The body displays a harmonious profile with broad shoulders and a slender waist, draped in a sanghati robe worn diagonally over the left shoulder. A heavily pleated flap falls elegantly to the navel, marked by a distinctive fishtail-shaped notch, while the right shoulder is left bare, emphasizing purity and simplicity.

The Buddha’s heart-shaped face is framed by shell-like curls of hair that form a graceful outline around the forehead. These curls rise to a hemispherical ushnisha, crowned with a flaming ornamental finial symbolizing his elevated spiritual attainment. Long, elongated earlobes recall his princely past, when he wore heavy gold earrings before renouncing worldly life.

Seated on a pedestal, the Buddha is depicted in the Bhumisparsha, or “Calling the Earth to Witness” mudra. With the fingers of the right hand gently touching the ground, this gesture refers to the moment the Buddha called upon the Earth Goddess, Thorani, to bear witness to his merit as he overcame the assaults of Mara, the tempter.

According to the legend, Thorani rises from the earth and wrings water from her long black hair, releasing a powerful flood that sweeps away Mara and his army of demons. This iconic scene symbolizes the triumph of enlightenment over ignorance, the steadfastness of the Buddha, and his ultimate attainment of nirvana.

Sukhothai Buddha statues represent a pinnacle of Thai artistic and spiritual heritage. Their refined proportions, tranquil expressions, and flowing lines embody the profound spiritual values of the Sukhothai Kingdom and the creativity of its artists.

As enduring symbols of serenity, compassion, and enlightenment, these statues continue to inspire and captivate viewers today. They offer a timeless connection to Thailand’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions, making them deeply meaningful additions to both sacred and secular spaces.

Traditional in appearance yet effortlessly elegant, this piece is sure to add a unique and contemplative presence to any room in your home or workplace. One of the most recognizable figures in Asian art, this refined representation of the Buddha will bring a sense of quiet dignity and timeless style to your interior.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering SE Asian Art, through our website, for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.