十四世紀 銅漆金菩薩坐像

cast seated in dhyanasana with hands held in dhyanamudra, clad in long robes that cover and hang over the legs, adorned with beaded chains suspending ornaments, the slim face framed by the five-leafed crown and two phoenix that hang from it, who hold in their beaks the ends of chains attached to diamond shape ornaments and a circular medallion enclosing an image of the infant Buddha pointing skywards with one hand and towards the earth with the other

There is an old pewter repair which is cracked to the ends of the robe that hangs over the figure's right legs. There is a casting crack visible in the interior. There are some cracks and small losses to the headdress and the head of one phoenix is missing. There is a slight dent to the tip of the nose. There is age appropriate wear to the surface and gilt lacquer and the surface appears to be treated.
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.

Provincial foundries probably took inspiration from contemporaneous Qingbai figures of Guanyin such as the ones sold in our London rooms, 9th November 2005, lot 247, and 19th June 1984, lot 214. There is also a similar figure in the Musée Guimet, Paris.

All these figures sit in the posture of mediation, and have their legs completely covered by their robes and overlaid with beaded chains suspending ornaments. They also all have elaborate necklaces, and beribboned and ornamented headdresses suspending beaded chains. The hand postures are also similar, with hands resting on the lap and middle fingers pointing upwards.

The most unusual aspect of the present lot is the presence of a small figure within the plaque above the hands, which displays the standard pose for images of the infant Buddha.