A SMALL GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF AVALOKITESHVARA TANG DYNASTY |

finely cast with the bodhisattva seated in lalitsana atop a lotus throne, the proper right arm raised and bearing a lotus flower whilst the proper left hand rests on the left knee, the bare chest adorned with beaded necklaces and the dhoti secured at the waist and falling in folds over the lotus throne, all raised on a square pedestal base 

Nagatani, Inc., Chicago, 1st November 1956.
Collection of Stephen Junkunc, III (d. 1978).

The figure is in overall good condition for its age with only minor scratches to the surface and wear to the gilt, as illustrated. The underside of the base has oxidized to green.
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.

This graceful depiction of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara seated in lalitasana, the position of relaxation, demonstrates the full understanding of casting technology and expressiveness found in gilt-bronze divine sculpture of the Tang dynasty. The fully rounded, fleshy form is characteristic of Tang dynasty style, during which the Chinese sculptural tradition in all its major mediums attained new heights. Compare the similar casting seen on a smaller (10.2cm high) figure of Avalokiteshvara formerly in the collection of Ivan Hart, attributed to the mid-7th century in Hugo Munsterberg, Chinese Buddhist Bronzes, Tokyo, 1967, pl. 66.