A small gilt-bronze figure of Medicine Buddha Korea, late Unified Silla period, 7th / 8th Century

the figure standing upon a circular plinth of inverted lotus petals rising from a stepped octagonal base, the small feet set parallel and emerging from the long robes falling in symmetrical U-shaped folds between the projecting forearms, the right hand in abhayamudra and the left hand bearing a rounded jewel or almsbowl, the large squared head with enlarged childlike features smiling gently, with elongated eyes and earlobes beneath a domed usnisha

A very small section of right thumb and the lower right corner of the robe has a small old break, otherwise good condition.
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.

The casting repairs to the back and traces of pinned tenons at the rear of the head are technically consistent with Korean production from the late Unified Silla period. Figures of the 'Medicine Buddha,' (Sanskrit: Bhaishajyaguru, Korean: Yaksa Yorae) with his almsbowl attribute were extremely popular from the eighth century in China and Korea. Compare two larger figures illustrated in Pak Youngsook & Roderick Whitfield, Handbook of Korean Art: Buddhist Sculpture, Seoul, 2002, no.53, pp.274-7 in the National Museum of Korea, Seoul, and no.57, pp.286-9, in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. While the larger versions were certainly dedicated for specific temples and royal use, the large number of extant smaller figures, such as the present lot, testifies to their popularity with the lay Silla population.