A Superb Set of a Bronze Buddha and four Monks Burma Myanmar 19th Century

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A Superb Set of  Bronze Sculptures of the Buddha and Four Monks Burma Myanmar 19th Century

This finely cast bronze Buddha and four Monks are from Burma also known as Myanmar. Dating from the 19th Century and made with the lost wax process of casting bronze which goes back to ancient times, and painted with traces of gold and other pigments.

The tallest figure is of the Buddha together with four monks walking on their begging round. Traditionally, Buddhist monks are required to live only on what they are given, which serves to reflect how well they are regarded in society. The begging bowl is held silently by both the Buddha and his attendant monks, for no words are to be spoken while on the begging round, nor thanks given for donations, as the merit of giving is considered to be sufficient. They wait momentarily outside a layperson’s home for a few moments; if nothing is forthcoming, they will move on silently. The Buddha’s right hand is held in the Abhaya gesture, which is one of blessing and reassurance.
The monastic begging round is still a common practice in South East Asia, but in other parts where the climate is too hostile, such as Tibet, Mongolia, and northern China, it was never a part of the Buddhist tradition. Instead, offerings were made directly to the monastery.

Provenance: The Todd Barlin Collection of Buddhist & Asian Art

Exhibited and Published in “The art of compassion” 2018 P12.

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