A Buddhist triad limestone stele Northern Zhou dynasty, dated in accordance with 573 A.D.

the limestone well-carved with a Bodhisattva seated in 'Western pose' upon a plinth, the downcast gaze directed at his hands resting upon the knees, draped in loose overflowing robes tied at the belly and cascading down the legs, the exposed chest bejeweled with an ornamental collar, wearing a flat crown with a band of circular adornments attached to ribbons falling beyond the shoulders, flanked by two acolytes with their hands at their chests, all framed within a curved mandorla, above a rectangular block carved with inscription, wood stand (2)

Acquired by present owner from the Walter Beck estate in the 1960's.

The mandorla is missing a semi-circular part of the upper face, approximately 4 1/2 inches long. The two back corners of the base also with minor missing sections.Traces of reddish and green pigment visible on the figures' faces and robes. In good overall 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.

The carved inscription can be translated as: 'On the dingyou day of the second month of the guisi year, the second year of the Jiande reign of the Great Zhou (573 A.D.), Buddhist disciple Liu Kaiqian respectfully built a statue of Buddha for the deceased father. [Established by] son Guangzong and sister Gaofei.'