Bronze Shakyamuni Buddha Head

Dated to the early 19th-century, this cast bronze bust depicts the serene face of the historical Buddha, known also as Shaka, Shakyamuni, or Siddhartha Gautama. The most common subject in Buddhist iconography, the Buddha Shakyamuni is revered as a fully enlightened being and the source of all Buddhist teachings. Shakyamuni embodies the virtues of wisdom and composure and guides others in their journey towards enlightenment.

A fragment of a larger sculpture, this bronze face nevertheless displays a number of the auspicious marks of Buddhahood - tightly curled hair, elongated earlobes, and three rings on the neck. With downcast eyes and a slight smile, the Buddha holds an unwavering expression that conveys his inner calm and transcendent bliss.