A BRONZE STELE OF SHAKYAMUNI AND PRABHUTARATNA BUDDHA NORTHERN WEI DYNASTY, DATED TO THE FIFTH YEAR OF THE YONGPING PERIOD, CORRESPONDING TO 512 |

cast in low relief with two Buddhas seated side by side against a flame-shaped mandorla, each deity dressed in voluminous robes, the pleats of the garment and flaming swirls on the mandorla all detailed with pronounced striations, the pointed apex decorated in low relief with a small Buddha, the reverse inscribed with an indistinct dedication and date of the fifth year of the Yongping period, corresponding to 512, wood plinth, Japanese wood box (4).

Japanese Private Collection, Kansai, prior to World War II.

There are losses to the tip and the lower proper-left corner of the mandorla, and to the lower edge of the base, all as illustrated. There are two restored breaks to the top of the mandorla. There is expected wear to the surface, including typical oxidation of the metal which has small flecks of malachite encrustation, as illustrated.
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.