Lot 108
  • 108

A GILT-LACQUERED BRONZE FIGURE OF BUDDHA DATED 10TH YEAR OF THE REIGN OF ZHENGDE, CORRESPONDING TO 1515

Estimate
25,000 - 35,000 USD
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Description

  • Height: 16 1/2 inches
cast seated in dhyanasana, the left hand in vitarkamudra and the right hand in bhumisparsamudra, wearing a loose-fitting robe drawn over the left shoulder to cover the right, the broad face with downcast eyes and gentle smile flanked by pendulous ears, the head and domed ushnisha covered with tight curls and surmounted by an ovoid jewel, all supported on a double lotus pedestal, inscribed with a dedicatory inscription

Condition

There are several areas of loss to the base rim. There is a 1 in. (2.5 cm.) crack to the back of the base, and two cracks to the front of the lower pedestal. There are areas of loss and flaking to the git lacquer and overall signs of wear. .
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.

Catalogue Note

According to the inscription, three buddha images were cast on an auspicious day during the tenth year of the reign of emperor Zhengde by elder Hu Boxiang, to be venerated in his home forever, in the hope that they would bring longevity, blessings and good fortune.

This iconography in which Shakyamuni Buddha is seated with his right hand touching the earth, recalls the moment when he triumphs over all distractions and temptations, and summons the earth to bear witness to his enlightenment. The other two buddhas cast as part of the set by Hu Boxiang are possibly Bhaisajyaguru Buddha and Amitaba Buddha. This represents the Mahayana Buddhist Trikaya doctrine which expounds both on the nature of reality and buddha nature.