PROVENANCE:
Private collection, Asia

This figure is seated in dhyanasana, the hands held in front joined in dhyanamudra, in loose robes, sashed at the waist and falling from the shoulders over the arms and onto the ground, covered overall with a finely chased lotus pattern, the hem with scrolling lotus, all on a stippled ground, the large head with fine features, downcast eyes under high arching brows, round cheeks, wide forehead, the mouth slightly upturned in a beatific smile, all below tightly curled hair set in the center with the ushnisha, traces of gilding and polychrome on the rich brown patina. The overall structure and visual effect demonstrate the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artists.

The growth of sandalwood takes of as long as ten-year time and hence very precious. Its famously strong fragrance makes it a fine material for daily objects, medicine and also for Buddhist temples. Sandalwood is mentioned in various suttas of the Pāli Canon. In Buddhist traditions, sandalwood is considered to be of the padma (lotus) group and attributed to Buddha Amitabha. Sandalwood scent is believed by some to transform one's desires and maintain a person's alertness while in meditation. It is also one of the more popular scents used when offering incense to the Buddha and the guru.