Shakyamuni Buddha in gilded lacquered copper alloy, China, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), 17th century Depicted seated in the padmāsana posture on a lotus-shaped base with a double row of petals, the Buddha is shown with his hands in the varada mudra. He is clad in a monastic robe (kāṣāya) with flowing folds that leave his right shoulder bare, in accordance with an iconography widely prevalent during the Ming Dynasty. The face, with half-closed eyes and framed by long, drooping ears, is adorned with small, even curls topped by an ushnisha. The sculpture retains a thick coating of reddish-brown lacquer accented with gilding, revealing the underlying metal in places. The pedestal consists of a double lotus resting on a slightly flared base, with the petals rendered in high relief. The consecration plaque is present. Height: 16.5 cm Some wear to the lacquer; an old inventory label is affixed to the consecration plaque.