A RARE EARLY GILT-BRONZE VOTIVE FIGURE OF SAKYAMUNI BUDDHA SIXTEEN KINGDOMS, 4TH – EARLY 5TH CENTURY

cast as Sakyamuni Buddha seated in dhyanasana on a throne with the hands held in dhyanamudra, the front of the throne with a pair of projections, each fashioned as a lion, the figure inspired by Guptan figures and depicted adorned in a monastic robe falling gently over the lap, the slightly lowered head rendered with a meditative expression surmounted by a high domed usnisa, the reverse of the head with a small loop for the attachment of a mandorla, wood stand

Collection of Sato Gengen (1888-1963).
Christie's Tokyo, 27th May 1970, lot 193.

Good overall condition. There are two minute holes to the surface (largest 0.2cm) and typical surface wear. The gilding is well preserved for a 4th/5th century figure, especially on the front of the figure, but the reverse is mostly rubbed away. There is typical malachite-green oxidisation, especially to the interior.
"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."

It is rare to find an early gilt-bronze figure of Sakyamuni Buddha, dating to the 4th/early 5th century, and it is even more exceptional to find two in one collection. See the notes to the other similar figure offered here as lot 3201.