19th Century Burmese Gilded Wooden Buddha Forehead - Ava Style (20.5 cm)

This authentic Burmese Buddha (20.5 cm) is a refined example of traditional Mandalay sculpture. The sculpture combines a serene, classic Ava physiognomy with richly detailed mirror inlay and a warm historical patina. Despite its compact size, the statue possesses a striking presence thanks to its harmonious proportions, subtle hand-painted details, and original decorative finish. A special collector's item that effortlessly fits into a Japandi, Wabi-Sabi, or classic Asian interior.

The Philosophical & Spiritual Significance: Why this statue is essential

This Buddha represents the core values of Theravada Buddhism: inner peace, wisdom, and compassion.

• Serene Appearance: The half-closed eyes and relaxed facial expression symbolize deep meditation, inner balance, and complete mastery of body and mind.
• Ava Physiognomy: The elegant eyebrows, soft facial features, and harmonious proportions belong to the classic aesthetics of the historical Burmese sculptural tradition.
• Spiritual Presence: Through its understated appearance, the statue brings a sense of tranquility, contemplation, and harmony to any living or meditation space.
• Traditional Temple Art: The combination of wood, lacquer, gilding, and mirror decoration reflects centuries-old craftsmanship techniques from Myanmar.

Material & Craftsmanship

• Hand-painted Details: The eyes are finely finished with subtle line work around the pupils and eye contours, adding depth to the serene gaze.
• Original Hmankazi Inlay: The pata (forehead band) is decorated with a central rosette of original green and red glass tesserae, framed by historical silvered mirror inlay.
• Historical Patina: The natural aging of the mirror decoration and surface gives the statue an authentic character that only long-term age can create.
• Traditional Craftsmanship: The combination of fine wood carving, lacquer work, and glass decoration demonstrates the high level of skill of the classic Mandalay workshops.

Specifications

• Height: 20.5 cm
• Width: 12.4 cm
• Weight: 400 grams
• Origin: Myanmar (Burma)
• Material: Traditionally crafted wood with original lacquer and mirror decoration
• Decoration: Hmankazi glass inlay and silvered mirror ornaments
• Style: Classic Mandalay / Ava tradition
• Condition: Excellent authentic condition with beautiful historical patina

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

Read the shipping policy and the refund policy.

Pay securely at checkout with credit card, Klarna, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The certificate of authenticity and the invoice are included in the price.