A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF AVALOKITESVARA TANG DYNASTY

finely cast in the form of the bodhisattva Avalokitesvara standing elegantly in tribhanga atop a lotus base, the delicate and slender figure portrayed with the right elbow bent and holding a long willow branch in his right hand and a small globular jar in the left, adorned in a dhoti and long scarves draped over the shoulders and arms, the downcast gaze surmounted by an elaborate headdress, the back of the head with a small loop for the attachment of a mandorla, wood box

Collection of Sato Gengen (1888-1963).

The figure is in good overall condition, and the gilding is very well preserved, with just small areas of rubbing. There are minor dents and bruises to the fragile extremities, and other minor surface wear. There is some malachite-green oxidisation to the surface.
"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."

This image is typical of the high Tang style, where the figure of the bodhisattva is depicted with an elegant swayed-hip posture. A similar example with its mandorla and stand in the collection of the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco is illustrated in Hai-Wai-Yi-Chen: Chinese Art in Overseas Collections, Buddhist Sculpture I, Taipei, 1986, no. 114; and another of smaller size, was sold in our New York rooms, 21st September 2007, lot 8. See also the larger example, offered in this sale, lot 3218.