Buddha Silver and gilt copper alloy Java, Central Javanese Period

The Buddha standing on a gilded lotus platform mounted onto a square, stepped pedestal, wearing a diaphanous monastic robe revealing the contours of the body beneath, covering both shoulders, the fabric wrapped around the back with one corner hanging down and forming a triangular shape, the other corner continuing around the body and secured in the Buddha's left hand, the robe double hemmed at the neckline and just below the knees revealing an undergarment arranged in swathes at the ankles, the right hand forming vitarkamudra (teaching gesture), the face with a meditative expression, a looped halo around his head.

Spink and Son Ltd, London, acquired 1984
J. Polak, Amsterdam

The condition very good overall. The silver is tarnished with two casting flaws on the thighs at the front. The right hand slightly damaged. On the lotus pedestal the gilding is chipped and rubbed with the dark brown alloy showing through and some deposits of green oxidation especially on the back. The back bottom edge of the pedestal is chipped and damaged. No restoration.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The pronounced hem, the visible undergarment and the pointed usnisha suggest a strong influence of sculpture from India and can be compared to a seated Buddha in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston discussed in Jan Fontein, The Sculpture of Indonesia, New York, 1990, p. 183, fig. 38. Also compare to a standing Buddha published Martin Lerner, The Flame and the Lotus, Indian and Southeast Asian Art from The Kronos Collections, New York, 1984, pp. 112 - 113, fig. 41.