A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF PADMAPANI NEPAL, CIRCA 14TH CENTURY

sensitively cast as Padmapani standing in abhanga on a small rectangular base with hips slightly thrust to the right, the right hand depicted held in varadamudra with the left holding a long curled stem extending upwards and bearing a large lotus bloom near her shoulder, the poised figure of the bodhisattva clad in a dhoti with a sash draped across the legs, rendered with a downcast and gentle countenance, framed by large hoop earrings and a jewelled tiara, further adorned with other accessories and accoutrements inlaid with precious stones, including a necklace, girdle and armbands, affixed to a wood plinth

Spink & Son Ltd., London.

Some of the hardstone inlays may have been replaced. There is rubbing to the gilding, otherwise good condition.
"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 Malla period marked a significant era in the development of Nepalese art. One of the most popular deities was Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion in the form of Padmapani, the lotus bearer, here so sensitively depicted with elegant proportions of the body, accentuated by marked pectoral muscles, slender waist and a modelled torso. The bodhisattva is depicted with a serene expression, wearing a dhoti with pleated folds falling between the legs, secured at the waist with a sash draped across the thighs and hanging at the side. Another 14th century Nepalese bronze figure of Padmapani, in similar standing posture, from the Carter Burden Collection, sold twice in our New York rooms, March 27th 1991, lot 101, and again, 20th March 2013, lot 205.