This is an interesting and very unusual silver plated bronze bust of the famous four-faced Buddha.
This history of this fascinating motif entails a fusion between the Hindu and Buddhist faiths.
This high quality hot cast solid bronze was produced using the traditional "lost wax" process, otherwise known as the "cire perdue" method.
Condition:
In excellent condition, please see photos for confirmation.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 15 x Width 14 x Depth 14 & Weight 2.45 kg
Dimensions in inches:
Height 6 inches x Width 5 inches x Depth 5 inches & Weight 5.4 lbs
The four faced Buddha at the Erawan Shrine, Bangkok is actually Lord Brahma who is one of the Trinity of Hindu Gods.
The other two are Lord Vishnu, the sustainer and Lord Siva the destroyer. Brahma is said to be born from a lotus leaf sprouting from the navel of Vishnu. The Thais call Brahma, Than Tao MahaProm or Phra Phrom.
When Indian scholars spread Buddhism to Thailand, they brought with them Hindu culture and folklore, which has been inextricably linked with Thai culture and beliefs.
Brahma has four faces and eight hands; a feature that could have given rise to the name four faced Buddha. He is the god of creation, mercy and benevolence. He sits atop a lotus leaf; the lotus flower is commonly used for prayers at Thai shrines...
Category
1980s Vintage Bronze Busts
MaterialsSilver Plate, Bronze