Antique Ramanuja Bronze Statue. India. From 17th-18th Century.

Antique Ramanuja bronze statue. India. From 17th-18th century.

Ramanuja (Ramanujacharya) was an important Hindu philosopher, guru, and social reformer from the 11th century.

Ramanuja is often depicted sitting in the lotus position (sattvasana) with hands in a supplicant gesture, known as namaskara mudra. A holy staff (tridanda) rests against his right shoulder. This is a classic characteristic of sannyasiers (ascetics) within Sri Vaishnavism and identifies him specifically as Ramanuja.

Provenance: originates from the collection of a Danish nurse who, from approximately 1947-60, was part of the UN's vaccination program in Asia and Africa. In connection with this, she acquired this statue.

The wear on this type of antique bronze figures almost always comes from ritual polishing. In Hindu tradition, this type of wear is called a 'pujapatina'. During daily prayers and rituals (puja), the repeated touching and drying of the face leaves the sharp details worn away. This leaves the metal soft, smooth, and rounded, which is now considered an important sign of authenticity among collectors.

The material is a bronze metal alloy.

Measurements: approx. 6x4,5x4 cm. Condition: see pictures.