A fine gilt-bronze figure of Amitayus (Wuliangshoufo) Qing Dynasty, Kangxi period

Amitayus, the Buddha of Infinite Life, sits high on a double lotus petal pedestal, with his hands clasped in front of him in dhyanasana probably to hold the kalasha, the vase of immortality (now missing), the body with traces of lacquerwork, wearing a patterned shawl and dhoti, its loose folds falling over his crossed-legs in undulous folds, with a billowing scarf around his shoulders and arms falling to the base, the torso bare, wearing a beaded necklace and bejeweled bangles, armlets and ear-rings, the elegant face with its gentle features picked out in polychrome pigments, a magnificent five leaf diadem surrounding a high chignon, the interior packed with a few remaining sutra scrolls

Buddha Amitayus (Of Infinite Life), is the deity associated with the rites that ensure long life. It is closely connected with Amitabha the Deity of Infinite Light, and is thought to preside over the Western Paradise (Sukavati). Amitayus is especially worshipped by the Tibetans who believe that by faith and compassion life can be extended through long lineages. It is also believed that with the help of Amitayus life extending energy one can achieve self-enlightenment and welfare for others.

Compare two related figures of seated Amitayus illustrated in Ullrich van Schroeder, Indo-Tibetan Bronzes,  Hong Kong, p. 152, pls. 152A and 152B, where it is noted that the application of semi-precious stones indicate that images of this type were made for use by Tibetans. Compare also two richly gilded deity figures similarly decorated with semi-precious stones of the Qing dynasty, illustrated in Zhongguo Zang quan fojiao diaosu quanji, vol. 2, Beijing, 2002, pls. 208 and 209.

See also a closely related gilt-bronze figure of Amitayus sold in our London rooms, 12th may 1989, lot 518; and one sold at Christie's New York, 29th November 1990, lot 48.