A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF VAJRAPANI CHINA, QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

portrayed in alidhasana on coiled snakes supported on a lotus base, clutching a vajra in the raised right hand, left hand in vitarkamudra, a tiger skin wrapped round the waist, adorned with inlaid jewelry, scarves and a garland of severed heads, the ferocious face with bared fangs, three bulging eyes, and flaming brows surmounted by a tiara, the flaming hair incorporating a vajra

There are losses to the inlay which appears to be later replacements. There is wear to the pigment and gilding, and the figure has been resecured to the base with screws.
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.

Vajrapani is one of the earliest bodhisattvas to be mentioned in Mahayana Buddhism. He is the protector and guide of Shakyamuni Buddha and represented in Buddhist art as one of the three protective deities surrounding the Buddha.  In Tibetan Buddhism he is portrayed in a ferocious form to fight evil and protect the teachings of Buddhism.

Himalayan Art Resources item no. 12855.