A GILT-BRONZE AND HARDSTONE INLAID FIGURE OF AMITAYUS TIBET, 14TH CENTURY

seated in dhyanasana on a double-lotus base, cradling a vase overflowing with jewels in the lap, dressed in a neatly pleated dhoti and heavily adorned with jewelry inlaid with coral and semi-precious stones, the face with downcast eyes, prominent nose and gentle smile with an urna centering the forehead, surmounted by a foliate tiara fronting the tall chignon crowned by jewels

There are some losses and possible replacements to the inlay. There is a dent to one corner of the lotus base. There is wear to the pigments, gilding and the surface with minor nicks and scratches. There are traces of gold gilding around the neck and ears, so it is possible that the face may originally have been cold gilded. The finial topping the chignon appears slightly askew. The base plate is missing. Overall the piece is in good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Amitayus is an emanation of Amitabha Buddha. In the Mahayana tradition, buddhas are believed to have three different forms or bodies.  A physical body, an apparitional body and an ultimate truth body. Amitayus is the apparitional form of Amitabha.

His name means 'Infinite Life', and as a result is associated with longevity. He is depicted in the guise of a bodhisattva, adorned with jewelry holding a vase containing the elixir of immortality with the leaves of the ashoka tree hanging over its mouth, as portrayed in the present lot. The style of the jewelry, hooked nose and protruding lower lip bears the imprint of Newari craftsmen.

For an example of a 14th century gilt-bronze Amitayus in the Jokhang Collection, Lhasa, see Ulrich von Schroeder, Buddhist Sculptures in Tibet, Vol. II, Hong Kong, 2001, p. 1031, pl. 255C. A figure of Manjushri of similar style and period was sold in these rooms, 23rd March 2007, lot 55.

Himalayan Art Resources item no. 12856.