-
Antique Sukhothai Style Bronze Meditating Naga Buddha Statue - 21.5cm/9"
Measures - (Height) 21.5cm/9"
An antique Sukhothai-style Muchalinda Buddha, rendered in bronze and emanating quiet majesty, depicts the Enlightened One in deep meditation, sheltered by Muchalinda, the serpent king. The Buddha is seated serenely upon a three-tiered throne, composed of the serpent’s coiled body, while the majestic, flaring heads of the Naga rise protectively behind him, creating an aura of divine guardianship. His hands rest gracefully in the Dhyana Mudra—the gesture of meditation—symbolizing perfect composure and inner tranquility.
The Buddha’s face radiates peace and gentle introspection, with soft, naturalistic features that capture both humanity and transcendence. His head is crowned with a finely detailed ushnisha, characteristic of the refined Sukhothai style, signifying spiritual knowledge and enlightenment. The serpent form is skillfully modeled, symmetrical, and dignified, its intricate scales and poised heads embodying both strength and devotion.
According to Buddhist tradition, this scene portrays the moment when King Muchalinda protected the Buddha from a great storm during his meditation beneath the Bodhi tree. Coiling his body into a throne and spreading his hoods to shield the Blessed One from wind and rain, Muchalinda became a timeless symbol of reverence and divine protection.
Unlike relief sculptures carved into stone stelae, this figure is cast fully in the round, suggesting it was designed to be admired from every angle. Such craftsmanship reflects the Sukhothai-era ideal that sacred art should radiate presence and harmony within temple interiors, inviting worshippers to experience the Buddha’s serenity from all sides. Though imbued with deep religious significance and shaped under priestly guidance, the statue bears a striking realism and vitality that reveal the artistry of Thai sculptors at their finest.
The Dhyana Mudra of the Buddha’s hands symbolizes meditation, unity, and the alignment with higher consciousness. Traditionally, this depiction also serves as the astrological Buddha for those born on a Saturday, representing steadfast calm and spiritual protection throughout life.
On the reverse of the Naga’s hood, a delicately engraved Mandala symbolizes the universe—order within chaos, the cosmic harmony that emanates from enlightenment.
This remarkable piece beautifully embodies the fusion of spiritual devotion and artistic grace, hallmarks of the Sukhothai aesthetic and Thailand’s enduring Buddhist heritage.
SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering SE Asian Art for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.
-
The majority of orders will be shipped with DHL. This is a secure, express and fully tracked service.
Items less than 2Kg we typically ship using Royal Mail.
Once we receive your order we try to ship all orders the same or next working day.
Large and/or fragile pieces requiring palletising, specialist crating and/or extra packaging may take a little longer. Palletised shipments will be delivered curbside.
All orders over 35 GBP will be shipped free of charge.
-
We genuinely hope that all purchases delight.
However, if they do not, regardless of reason, we will refund all orders upon receipt of the unwanted item. Just notify us within 14 days of receiving your order that you wish to make a return and send the piece back to us with 30 days of delivery.
