A RARE BRONZE FIGURE OF BUDDHA CHINA, MING DYNASTY

portrayed seated on a lotus in dhyanasana with hands in bhumisparsa- and avakashamudra, with meditative expression beneath the head of tight curls, flanked by disciples Ananda and Kasyapa, supported on the back of a caparisoned mythical beast with turned head, and mouth open in mid-roar

There is some corrosion around the mythical beast's front right paw and long the back edge of the base. There are scattered casting flaws on the top of the base. There are traces of lacquer on the surface as well as the expected wear consistent with age and use.
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.

It is more common to find figures of bodhisattvas supported on the backs of mythical beasts than images of Buddha. Another unusual feature of the present lot is the presence of Buddha's disciples Ananda and Kasyapa. Ananda, on Buddha's right, is usually portrayed as a young man with hands in anjalimudra, while Kasyapa is usually portrayed as an old man with hands clasped.  In the present example, Kasyapa's age is indicated by the furrow in his brow, while Ananda has a smooth forehead.