Statuette de Tsonghapa en bronze doré Mongolie, Ecole de Zanabazar, XVIIIE siècle

représenté assis en vajrasana sur une base circulaire en lotus, la main droite en vitarkamudra, la gauche tenant le patra, le fondateur de l'ordre des Gelugpa porte la coiffe conique et l'habit monastique formé d'une robe ceinturée à la taille et d'un long manteau souple à motifs floraux, le visage serein, la bouche légèrement souriante, le nez aquilin, les yeux en amande.

Good condition. Some expected wears to the edges and to the gilding beneath the lotus base ; some light pitting in areas ; a light scratch below the chin of the figure ; the foot rim has some dents, the base is sealed ; the actual color of the gilding is somewhat warmer, a fraction more orangeai than the illustration would suggest in the catalogue.
"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."

Tsonghapa (1357-1419) is widely regarded in Tibet as a second Buddha and the main teacher of the first Dalaï Lama, Gendun Drub (1391-1474). He is revered as an emanation of the Buddhist god of wisdom, Manjushri.
Compare with a figure of Buddha seated on a similar lotus stand, sold at Christie's New York, 21 March 2008, lot 641.