This copper alloy image of Buddha with a tall, flame finial and elegant facial features stands with the right hand in the gesture of fearlessness (abhaya mudra). An outer robe (sanghati) covers both shoulders and flares symmetrically outwards at the sides. Slender curving arms with long sinuous hands are features which reflect the legacy of the earlier Sukhothai art style. Founded in 1350 by King U Thong, Ayutthaya represents the flourishing of Thai royal culture, when large architectural stucco Buddha images with the same stylistic features were commissioned for royal temples.
