A SINO-TIBETAN GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF BUDDHA MARK AND PERIOD QIANLONG

the figure clad in a dhoti and seated in vajraparyankasana on a double lotus base with beaded rim, inscribed with a seven-character Qianlong mark, Sanskrit and Manchu script, the base sealed and incised with a double vajra

A Private European collection.

The overall condition is quite good. The back side of the Buddha appears to possibly be regilded. The vertical mould mark separating the front and the back is visible. The base plate has been removed and probably later replaced. The interior has been filled with lead. There is light wear to the gilding around the face.
"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."

This elegant and fluidly rendered figure represents the Qianlong emperor's devotion to Tibetan Buddhism. After the Qing dynasty established their capital at Beijing, during the process of consolidating their rule Tibetan Buddhism was adopted to assist in the collaboration of the Mongols and Tibetans to unify China. Thus, Buddhist figures and ritual implements of the Qing period were often an amalgam of Tibetan and Palace styles, as exemplified in the present piece. A stele in the Yonghe Palace, Beijing, records the words of the Qianlong emperor, "If one sufficiently promulgates Tibetan Buddhism the Mongols will not rise up. This is a very important thing".

A closely related example, but with hands in the bhumiparsamudra, was sold in these rooms, 15^th November 1989, lot 586; another figure was sold in our London rooms, 11^th December 1990, lot 36; and a third was sold at Christie's London, 21^st March 1988, lot 285.

The present figure is shown with his right hand in the gesture of fearlessness, a gesture made only by Buddhas and bodhisattvas to signify friendship and peace. According to legend, when the historical Buddha was attacked by an angry elephant, he held his hand in this gesture which calmed the raging beast.