CHINE, DYNASTIE MING, XVIÈME-XVIIÈME SIÈCLE

Impressive for its large size and crisp casting, this figure represents Buddha Shakyamuni, likely intended as the central figure in a triad alongside Bhaisajyaguru and Amitabha. Shakyamuni, the Historical Buddha, is depicted with his hands in the bhumisparsa-mudra, or earth-touching gesture, symbolizing the moment of his enlightenment when he called upon the earth to witness this momentous achievement. In this gesture, Shakyamuni positions his left hand in his lap, palm up, in the dhyana-mudra, or meditation gesture, while lowering his right hand over his right knee, palm facing inward. Although he may be depicted with various mudras, Shakyamuni is most characteristically shown in the bhumisparsa-mudra, as it embodies the essence of his enlightenment. See a gilt-bronze Buddhist triad of similar period and size, sold at Christie’s Paris on December 16, 2022, lot 91.