Pair of Antique Burmese Papier-Mâché Buddha Figures – Konbaung – ca. 1750–1825

Pair of Burmese Buddha figures from the Konbaung period

Origin: Myanmar (Burma), Mandalay region
Date: ca. 1750–1825
Material: ritual papier-mâché, lacquer and surviving gilding
Dimensions:
Figure A: H 65.5 × W 31 cm – 3.5 kg
Figure B: H 64.5 × W 30 cm – 4.0 kg
Total weight: 7.5 kg
Mudra: Bhumisparsha mudra

A rare devotional pair

These two seated Buddhas belong to the Burmese ritual sculptural tradition of the late Konbaung period. Each figure reaches the right hand toward the earth in Bhumisparsha mudra, the gesture associated with the Buddha calling the earth to witness his enlightenment.

They share the same iconographic language but are individually made. Differences in the flame-shaped ushnisha, base and surface modelling give each sculpture its own identity while preserving the visual balance of the pair.

Papier-mâché, lacquer and gilded surface

The bodies are built from lacquered papier-mâché over organic internal reinforcement, allowing substantial scale without the weight of solid wood. Their surfaces retain red and black lacquer, old gilding, wear from handling and mineral deposits.

One figure retains an old export tag. The reverse of the second carries the later date inscription 19 05 51, which belongs to the later history of the object rather than its original date of manufacture.

Documentation and condition

The pair is accompanied by a Thai export licence. Earlier UV, microscopic and internal examination recorded the lacquer, gilding, patina and internal deposits. Both figures remain stable, with visible age-related wear, losses to lacquer and gilding, and localized surface damage.

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

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