Burmese Worshipping Monk In Gilt Bronze

Elegant representation of the worshipper Sāriputta, one of the two most popular Buddha worshippers in Burma. Mandalay period, 19th century. Bronze, lacquer and gilding H 57 cm x D 44 cm x W 35 cm Weight: 20.625 kg Provenance: Estate of the collector and dealer of Asian art Claude de Marteau Sold with certificate of provenance. Another example (nearly identical) is also available. In Burma, bronze worshippers were made primarily for religious reasons. They served for devotion and veneration of Buddhist figures, often placed in temples or domestic altars to accompany Buddha statues. These pieces reflected the spiritual fervor and refined craftsmanship of the time. The posture of the hands is an important distinguishing element. Sāriputta is often depicted with his hands resting on his knees or one hand resting on the ground. Here, the hands are placed more laterally and delicately, which could indicate a specific interpretation or a regional difference. The kneeling position with the hands resting on the knees evokes representations of Buddha's disciples, presumably Sāriputta, or even praying donors. The trapezoidal base adorned with a decorative cartouche is typical of Burmese statues of the late 19th century. These bronze worshippers were often offerings commissioned by devotees to obtain spiritual merit, express their devotion, or in gratitude for granted wishes. The cartouche at the base of the statue sometimes contained dedicatory inscriptions or blessings. In the Burmese context, it could also contain information about the donor, the craftsman, or even prayers. This was a way of adding a personal and spiritual dimension to the statue, reinforcing its role as an offering or meditation aid. Worshippers were often placed in temples or domestic altars to accompany Buddha statues. These pieces reflected the spiritual fervor and refined craftsmanship of the time. Among the ten principal disciples of Buddha, we find in particular: Mahā-Moggallāna, the most represented with Sariputta in Burma. Known for his supernatural powers, he is often represented with a serene and ascetic appearance, in a posture of meditation or veneration, kneeling or standing and dressed in monastic robes. His features are posed and he may be accompanied by symbolic attributes such as a begging bowl. In some depictions, he is depicted with disciples, emphasizing his important role among the Buddha's chief disciples. Ānanda: Because of his exceptional memory, he is known as the Buddha's faithful attendant. He is often depicted with a humble attitude, standing or kneeling, sometimes holding a monk's fan. His expression is generally gentle, and he is often placed next to the figure of the Buddha, symbolizing his role as confidant and first disciple. Mahā-kāśyapa: Renowned for his rigorous asceticism, he is often depicted as an older monk, with a meditative or preaching posture. He is known to have presided over the first Buddhist council, and is sometimes depicted with a grave, meditative expression. View this Burmese gilt-bronze worshipping monk in full screen mode on Vintage Addict