A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF MANJUSRI MING DYNASTY

cast seated in dhyanasana, holding a scroll in both hands, dressed in loose, flowing robes open at the chest revealing elaborate jewelry, the borders chased with floral scrolls, the face, hands and feet applied with cold gilt, the hair dressed in knotted plaits trailing down the shoulders and pulled into a high coiffure behind the foliate crown fronted by an elaborate jewel, the details highlighted with red pigment 

Acquired in China in the 1960s, and thence by descent.

There is wear to the gilt and pigments and some minor dents along the edge of the diadem and base. There is a chip to one of the tips of the crown.
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.

Manjusri is the bodhisattva who embodies wisdom, and as such is often represented with a scroll or book representing the prajnaparamita sutra.  Unlike Avalokitesvara, whose headdress incorporates an image of Amitabha Buddha, Manjusri's headdress often has a shining jewel, whose illuminating light dispels the darkness of ignorance.  Sino-Tibetan forms often have Manjusri holding a flaming sword that has the similar purpose of cutting through ignorance.