A Sandstone Head of Buddha Northern Qi Dynasty

sensitively carved with serene, naturalistic expression, the almond-shaped, hooded eyes well framed beneath arched brows, the aristocratic features intricately conveyed through the prominent well-formed nose, curved mouth and narrow lips, the hair dressed in rows of large, rounded curls, with a neat hairline curving down the sides of the face, revealing the elongated ears, the light grey stone of a smooth patina with traces of green, red and white pigments, black-stone stand.

Wannieck collection, Paris.
A private collection, Belgium.
Eskenazi Ltd., London.

China Cultuur Vroeger en nu [Chinese culture past & present], Centrum voor Kunst en Cultuur [Centre for arts and culture], Gent, 1979, no. 292 (dated to the Sui dynasty).

Ancient Chinese Bronze and Sculpture, Eskenazi Ltd., London, 2005, cat. no. 8.

Overall good condition, with just minor bruises to three of the curls of the hair, and a tiny bruise to the right cheek, as visible in the catalogue photo. There is other general surface wear. The colour of the sandstone is a slightly warmer and more attractive beige-grey than in the catalogue, where it has come out too dark.
"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."