Burmese Pagoda Relic - 18th-19th Century Tabernacle Buddha (Cleaned Version)

A Buddha statue retrieved from a collapsed pagoda in the Mandalay region of Myanmar. Depicts the Buddha in the Bhumisparsha mudra, symbolizing the earth-touching gesture. Estimated to be from the 18th-19th century (dealers who brought it to Taiwan suggested it might be even older). However, with years of experience handling antiques, it's prudent to maintain a conservative estimate. This style of Buddha statue features a distinctive Burmese tabernacle design. The base of the tabernacle is designed to hold cylindrical amulet beads. The total height is 7.7 cm. The exterior has been cleaned. It underwent an initial cleaning in Myanmar upon retrieval from the pagoda, removing most of the hardened, cement-like soil encrustations from the bronze Buddha. A second cleaning was performed after its arrival in Taiwan, brushing away bronze oxidation and casting residue. However, a small portion of the hard, cement-like soil and green patina remains within the tabernacle. Collectors should not assume that such humble and unassuming old Burmese Buddha statues are inexpensive. These are now considered impossible to export from Myanmar. Major antique dealers price this piece at 3,500 (currency not specified). Without a history of purchasing over a million in goods, there would be no discount offered. 4000-114.01.12