A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF A BUDDHA MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

cast seated in dhyanasana, the right hand in bhumiparasamudra and the left in dhyanasanamudra, the face with serene expression and the hair tightly curled around the protuberant ushnisha, wearing loose robes, well-decorated along the hem with a lotus pattern, draped around the shoulders and open revealing the bare chest with a wan symbol and an inner garment tied at the waist, a painted inscription on the back reading shi yin bian bai, shi jin bian chi (silver turns white, gold turns red)

Collection of an American diplomat, acquired in the 1950s and thence by descent.

There is some wear to the gilt, one finger is dented at the tip, and there is an approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) section of the edge of the base at the back missing. There are small patch repairs; two to one knee, one to the upper section of one thigh, and another to one shoulder.
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.