A RARE DATED GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF AVALOKITESVARA SUI DYNASTY, DATED 581AD

cast standing on a lotus pedestal base, the body positioned in tribhanga, wearing a long robe a beaded necklace and a long shawl falling down from the shoulders and around the arms to the base, the right hand holding a fly whisk, the left a small bowl, the face with gentle smile and framed by a three-pointed tiara, the reverse inscribed and dated, traces of gilding, wood stand

This rare gilt-bronze is in overall good condition with slight nibbles and deterioration to the edges of the scarf and robe, fly whisk and bowl. There is loss and rubbing to the gilding and small areas of bronze corrosion and encrustation due to burial.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The inscription may be translated as 'Made on the 20th Day of the 8th Month of the 1st Year of the Kaihuang reign', corresponding to 581 A.D.