Laotian Bronze Standing Buddha In Abhaya Mudra Appraisal

Laotian Bronze Standing Buddha in Abhaya Mudra

This is a 28 cm tall bronze or copper-alloy sculpture of a standing Buddha, characterized by the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness) performed with both hands raised, palms facing outward. The figure depicts the Buddha in a royal, upright posture typical of Laotian or Thai artistic traditions. The piece is cast using the lost-wax technique, evidenced by the hollow base which retains remnants of the original clay core as mentioned in the provenance. The surface displays a significant, uniform green verdigris patina, suggesting oxidation from environmental exposure or deliberate aging treatments common in the late 20th century. The Buddha wears a diaphanous robe (samghati) draped over both shoulders, falling into wing-like flares at the sides, with a decorative central belt or girdle (habbot) holding the lower garment. The facial features are serene with heavy-lidded eyes, elongated earlobes, and a tightly curled ushnisha (cranial bump) topped with a lotus-bud finial. The figure stands on a circular tiered lotus pedestal. Weighing 1.2 kg, the construction is solid and well-proportioned, though the heavy crusting and patina obscure finer engraving details. Based on the 1995 Vientiane acquisition date and stylistic elements, it is likely a 20th-century devotional or commemorative casting in the Lan Xang or Rattanakosin style.