AN EXTREMELY LARGE GILT-LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF WEITUO MING DYNASTY, 17TH CENTURY

the bodhisattva dressed as a warrior, standing with one foot thrust forward, the arms and hands at waist-level posed to hold a now missing weapon, wearing chainmail armor over flowing robes, the midriff with a fierce 'monster'-mask chestguard, the mail skirt terminating in mask-weights, the face with a gentle expression, red lacquer under the gilding and additional red and black lacquer accenting the face and clothing, modern stand (2)

Sotheby's New York, 19th March 1997, lot 169.
Collection of Bernadette and William M. B. Berger, Denver, Colorado, acquired in 1997.

The lacquer cracking, buckling, and flaking throughout. Gilding worn down in some areas. Rectangular hole cut into back of figure to affix the metal brace that supports the statue on the stand. Large loss by the right shoulder blade revealing the stucco ground. Colored lacquer retouched in some areas.
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.

Weituo appears in Buddhist temples as the 'Entry Guardian.' He leads the thirty-two heavenly generals who come under the Four Heavenly Kings and has earned such titles as the 'Protector of the Buddhist Faith,' the 'Protector of Monasteries,' and the 'Protector of Dharma Books.' In all temples where his image is found, he is always placed with his back to the statue of Maitreya Buddha so that he faces the Main or Grand Hall where the principal deities of the temple are enshrined.