A RARE GILT AND ENAMELLED PORCELAIN FIGURE OF AMITAYUS SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG, DATED XINMAO YEAR (IN ACCORDANCE WITH 1771)

finely modelled in imitation of gilt-bronze, the deity seated in vajraparyankasana on a double-lotus base, the hands folded in dhyanamudra, wearing a long flowing dhoti opening at the chest to reveal an elaborate necklace, the face with meditative expression, the hair gathered into a high chignon save for two curling braids falling off the sides, surmounted by a five-leaf diadem, the top of the base inscribed with a blue-enamelled mark Daqing Qianlong xinmao nian zao ('Made in the xinmao year during the Qianlong reign of the great Qing dynasty', in accordance with 1771), the base with separate porcelain plug

The figure is in overall good condition. As visible in the catalogue photo, the separately created attribute in the hands is missing. The tip of one sash above the ear has a small shallow nick of no larger than 2 mm, possibly slightly retouched. Except for some typical wear to the enamelling and gilding, the overall condition is very good.
"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 simulation of materials using porcelain was particularly popular during the 18th century, as it provided the opportunity for potters to display their creative proficiency in the medium while satisfying the Qianlong Emperor's taste for the novel. See also two closely related examples sold in these rooms, 10th April 2006, lot 1743; and the other, 30th April 1991, lot 138; and a third figure sold at Christie's New York, 1st December 1983, lot 526. Compare a similar figure attributed to the Qianlong period, but depicted kneeling on one knee, published in I.L. Legeza, A Descriptive and Illustrated Catalogue of the Malcolm MacDonald Collection of Chinese Ceramics, London, 1972, pl. CXLI, no. 384; and a pair sold at Christie's New York, 24th/25th March 2011, lot 1748. For a seated figure of Buddha, see one in the Nanjing Museum, Nanjing, published in The Official Kiln Porcelain of the Chinese Qing Dynasty, Shanghai, 2003, p. 322.