Ming Dynasty Crowned Buddha
Ming Dynasty Crowned Buddha, an exceptional Ming Crowned Buddha dated 1530, during the ninth year of the Jiajing reign, finely cast in bronze and retaining traces of its original lacquer and cold gilding.
The Buddha is seated in padmasana upon an elaborate double-lotus pedestal, wearing an ornate five-pointed crown decorated with intricate floral ornaments. His serene expression, gently lowered eyes and delicately modelled facial features reflect the refined craftsmanship of Chinese Buddhist sculpture during the Ming dynasty.
The right hand is extended in bhumisparsha mudra, the earth-touching gesture associated with the enlightenment of Shakyamuni Buddha, while the left hand rests in his lap in meditation. Richly ornamented robes fall gracefully across the shoulders and legs, displaying finely executed decorative patterns.
China, Ming Dynasty, Jiajing Period (1522–1566)
Dated 1530 | Lacquer-gilt bronze | Height: 34 cm
- Dated Dedicatory Inscription
Of particular historical importance is the Chinese inscription engraved around the lower section of the pedestal, recording the precise date of manufacture and the names of the individuals associated with its dedication.
The inscription translates as:
“Made on the twentieth day of the third month in the ninth year of the Jiajing reign (1530), by Wu Liangjing and Hao Miaolian together with their son Wu Han.”
This dated inscription provides an important historical reference, connecting the sculpture directly to Buddhist patronage and religious devotion during the Jiajing period of the Ming dynasty.
- Provenance
Acquired in Shanghai in 1947 by the Swedish collector Olle Kronke.
Thence by descent.
- Historical Significance
The combination of its elaborate sculptural decoration, surviving lacquer and gilding, precisely dated dedicatory inscription and documented Swedish provenance makes this Ming dynasty crowned Buddha a particularly interesting example of sixteenth-century Chinese Buddhist bronze sculpture.
The sculpture represents both the artistic traditions and the religious devotion of Ming dynasty China, preserving the names of its original dedicants nearly five centuries after its creation.
