Lohan en bronze Chine, dynastie Ming, XVE siècle

représenté en vajrasana sur une base rectangulaire, la main droite en vitarka mudra (geste du débat ou de la discussion), la main gauche reposant sur son talon droit en avakasha (geste du loisir), vêtu d'un dhoti au galon finement ciselé de rinceaux de fleurs, l'épaule gauche couverte et la droite laissée nue, le crane rasé, le visage rond serein, les lèvres fines, le nez aquilin, les yeux en amande 

The base is unsealed, it is a heavy casting with extremely fine engraving ; there are some original patches of repair to the casting (visible on the photo) mainly visible on the face, chest, two fingers of the right hand, on his right knee ; two fingers of its left hand are restored ; the edge of his right hand has an old bump (showing on the photo) ; overall wear and rubbing to the gilding consistent with age, otherwise in good condition. The actual colour is less orange, more gold than on the catalogue illustration.
"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 carving of the garment and the quality of the casting of this fine figure of Lohan is exceptional. The face can be compared to the gilt-bronze figure of Angaja from the 15th century sold at Christie's Paris, 11 June 2008, lot 258. The casting can also be compared to large Yuan bronze figures of seated Lohan, on of these sold at Christie's New York, 21 March 2000, lot 159.