A GILT-LACQUER BRONZE FIGURE OF GUANYIN YUAN / EARLY MING DYNASTY

cast seated in lalitasana on a recumbent lion, with her right arm resting on her right knee, all supported on a base cast in the form of jagged rockwork, the right hand holding a scroll, the serene face with a downcast gaze and a meditative expression, flanked by ears adorned with embellished earrings, all below a large crown atop her head, dressed in a shawl and dhoti and adorned with a bejewelled necklace, the animal turning its head upwards to look at the figure above, the gilt-lacquered two-toned surface with a rich attractive patina, the back of the base incised with an indistinct donor's inscription

Sotheby’s London, 12th March 1982, lot 131.

There are losses to the gilding, as visible in the catalogue photo. Extensive surface wear, including loss of detail to the inscription on the reverse. The tip of the crown has been broken off. Other general surface wear and scratches to the body.
"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."

The composition is unusually fluid in concept, and the overall impression is enhanced by the most attractive wear on the surface caused by constant devoted handling. The Guanyin's subtle two-coloured appearance emphasises a sculptural exquisiteness which can compete with its fire-gilt counterparts. Several of the characters are legible on the incised inscription, indistinct below the lacquer. It appears to be a donor’s inscription, relating that Hao Gong (?) made this for XXX.