Large Lacquered Wooden Buddha, Burma, Late 19th Century

Large painted wooden Buddha with glass beadwork decoration, depicted in the Bhumisparsa mudra, or earth-touching gesture. This gesture represents the Buddha's Enlightenment. It holds a significant place in Buddhist imagery, as it symbolizes victory over Mara (death, the demon, the realm of desires and passions). Mara attempted to interrupt the Buddha's meditation by presenting him with every possible distraction. In response, the Buddha touched the earth, invoking nature and the earth goddess Sthavara to demonstrate his resolve. Burma, late 19th century. Some damage and chips to the polychromy, but a very beautiful piece. 110 x 62 x 37 cm