Buddhist monk Phra Malai, early 19th century.

Seated image of the Buddhist monk Phra Malai. Possibly Thailand, early 19th century.
Lacquered and gilded bronze.
Fine details with good patina.
Measurements: 77,5 x 63 x 40 cm.

Round sculpture made in bronze, representing the Buddhist monk Phra Malai. Seated in the position of the lotus, he executes the mudra of putting the earth by witness. The figure wears a robe that covers one of his arms and leaves the torso exposed, meticulously chiseled, as are the curls of his head and the harmonious features of his face. We can also see the eyelids folded, symbol of spiritual concentration and also of purity, due to their similarity to the petals of the lotus, and they complete a serene face with a sketched smile, symbol of the balance and serenity of a perfect being. The elongated earlobes allude to the large earrings worn by members of the upper classes in India at the time of Sakyamuni, and represent the concepts of greatness, nobility and wisdom.

Legend has it that Malai accumulated so many merits of virtue that he acquired great supernatural powers which he uses to travel to various hells where he meets the suffering dwellers and is implored by their living relatives to make merits on their behalf.