A LARGE POLYCHROME PAINTED WOOD FIGURE OF BIXIA YUANJUN MING DYNASTY

shown seated with hands clasped in front, wearing a ruyi-shaped ornament at her chest and long robes embellished in colorful clouds, birds, and phoenix feathers, her face with a benevolent expression and black-lacquered pupils, polychrome pigment and traces of gilding applied to a fine layer of plaster over the wood core, now mounted as a lamp

Missing features include the tablet she held in her hands, her crown, her left shoe, earrings, and fingertips. Some colored pigments and gilding have been lost to sunlight, wear, or surface abrasion. Vertical cracks evident on the shoulders, backs of arms, and down her back. Restoration with plaster and newer pigments in some areas. Barrel-shaped base and the insert plugging the hole cut into her back are both modern additions and are made of the same wood. Lamp fixture runs through the barrel seat and attaches to the back of the goddess by screws.
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.