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34. Jambhupati Buddha Upper Burma 18th century Bronze Height: 44.5 cm (17.5 ins) |
This representation of the Buddha, dressed in royal attire and with such an elaborate headdress, is unique to Burmese art and is referred to as ‘King of Kings’ or ‘Subduer of Jambhupati’. The arrogant King Jambhupati was converted to a holy life by the appearance of the Buddha as a powerful Universal Monarch. The concept of Universal kinship is an important aspect of Southeast Asian cosmology, the influence of which can be seen in the construction of temple sites. . The figure is seated in padmasana on a waisted lotus throne and holds in his left hand a Kalasa Pot and in his right hand the Myrobalan (sacred fruit). The figure wears a crown, jewels and robes associated with royalty and the bands across the chest are similar to those worn by Burmese kings. The earrings are of a long tassel-like design. Crowned Buddha images are first seen in East India. However, this remarkable headdress is thoroughly Burmese, emerging initially in paintings and reliefs in the late-Pagan period. A similar larger bronze can be seen in the British Museum (ref OA.1969.2-11.1). References: Pal, Pratapaditya; The Sensuous Immortals; A Selection of Sculpture from the Pan-Asian Collection, Los Angeles, 1978, fig 92b. Tambiah, S J; The Buddhist Conception of Universal King and its Manifestations in South and Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur University of Malaya, 1987. Provenance: Private collection, England, purchased in 1979. |