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Buddha Preaching

6th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
This sculpture is one of two Amaravati-style bronze Buddhas found in Thailand. Both are likely imports from Sri Lanka, where the Amaravati legacy of southern India continued in the monastic workshops of Anuradhapura, the first-millennium capital of Buddhist Sri Lanka. The presence of such imported models had a profound impact on image-making in the western and southern regions of Thailand. The pivotal role of Sri Lanka, both as a hub for long-distance trade and as a recognized custodian of Buddhist values, made it a natural source of inspiration and guidance for newly emerging Buddhist communities.


cat. no. 5

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Buddha Preaching
  • Date: 6th century
  • Culture: South Asia, probably Sri Lanka
  • Medium: Copper alloy
  • Dimensions: H. 11 1/2 in. (29.2 cm); W. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Bangkok, gift of Prince Damrong Rajanubhab (DR1)
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art