Lot 544
  • 544

A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF GUANYIN MING DYNASTY, 15TH / 16TH CENTURY

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • bronze
seated in vajraparyankasana, the shoulders flanked by the kalavinka bird and a kundika supported by lotus blossoms, the stems extending from the palms, the deity with a high scrolling jatamakuta encircled by a crown above elaborate jewelry, the dhoti falling in folds about the seat, supported by a double lotus base with pendent sashes near the corners, with traces of pigment

Condition

The figure is in overall good condition with typical wear for the age. There are multiple small losses including to four crown tips, the top of the kundika, a loop of the sash, the tip of one finger, the bottom edge of the base, and a few other scattered, very minor elements at the edges. The base plate is missing and one side of the base is compressed slightly out of shape. Heavy wear to the gilt and light oxidation throughout.
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.

Catalogue Note

This specific combination of kundika rose water sprinkler and the kalavinka bird, as seen in the present figure, can often be found in Chinese Buddhist iconography of the Ming dynasty. Both elements were borrowed from the iconography of China's neighbors and appear in Chinese art during the Tang dynasty. The kundika originated in India, was used in Buddhist rituals, and in this context, symbolizes purification. The kalavinka is said to represent the voice of the Buddha with its melodious sound, and is associated with Garuda and Kinnara in Buddhist art.
A bronze figure of Guanyin dated to the second half of the 15th century and similar to the present lot was sold at Christie's Hong Kong 3rd November 1998, lot 1014; another similar example with a different lotus base, cast with the date 1516, Zhengde Period, was sold at Christie's New York, 21st March 2000, lot 171.