Indian Ratnasambhava Buddha – 19th Century – Pala Revival – 15 cm

The architectural setting is integral to this 19th-century Indian bronze. Ratnasambhava sits before a broad oval halo on a double-lotus throne, raised above a four-footed plinth. A domed parasol carried by curving supports completes the compact, shrine-like ensemble.

His right hand extends downward in varada mudra, the gesture associated with generosity and giving. The left hand rests in the lap and supports a small jewel-shaped attribute. The narrow frontal body, emphatic symmetry and imposing backplate revive visual conventions linked to eastern Indian sculpture of the Pala age without presenting the bronze as a work from that historical period.

A beaded inner band frames the halo, while an undulating flame or foliage border animates its outer edge. The elevated parasol adds verticality; the lotus tiers and architectural base give the composition unusual presence for an object only fifteen centimetres high.

Object details

• Subject: Ratnasambhava Buddha
• Origin: India
• Date: 19th century
• Style: Pala Revival
• Material: bronze / copper alloy
• Dimensions: H 15 × W 7.5 cm
• Weight: 600 g

Casting and surface

The open underside reveals the hollow-cast interior of the plinth. Golden-brown metal alternates with darker patinated areas, and orange-red deposits remain in recessed passages. Localised pitting is visible across the figure; the reverse preserves casting marks, colour variation and several irregular apertures in the backplate.

Condition

Age and handling are evident in wear, scratches, encrustation and local corrosion pits. Small losses and openings occur around the halo, lotus, backplate and plinth, with further wear and minor damage at the feet and corners of the base. These are recorded as observable condition features, not as independent evidence for an earlier date. The full photographic sequence forms part of this condition report.

Market context

A related 19th-century Indian bronze Ratnasambhava described as Pala Period Style sold at Galerie Zacke for €2,340 including buyer’s premium. It is cited solely as a stylistic and market comparison and does not establish identical provenance, age or condition.

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.

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