A BRONZE FIGURE OF RATNASAMBHAVA LIAO DYNASTY

cast in the form of Ratnasambhava depicted seated in dhyanasana, the right hand rendered raised and holding the mani, the globular jewel depicted resting at the centre of the palm, the left hand gently raised in vitarkamudra with the wrist resting on the lap, dressed in long flowing robes cascading in voluminous folds over the feet, the figure depicted with a meditative and serene expression flanked by a pair of pendulous earlobes decorated with ornate earrings, all surmounted by an eleborate tall headdress with adornments falling on the shoulders and chest, traces of gilding, wood stand and wood box

There are bruises to the fragile extremities, including the edges of the robes, the base and the tips of the fingers. There are areas of restoration, including a 1cm by 1.2cm hole at the reverse of the crown and a 3cm section at the reverse of the figure's back. Other general surface wear and scratching. A small section of the reverse of the headdress has been broken off and refixed.
"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 Liao emperors were devout followers of Buddhism, and  encouraged the flourishing of its art under their reign. The Buddhist imagery of this period inherited the styles of the Tang dynasty, which suited the bold and liberal characteristics of the northern nomadic people, while integrating the refined spirit of the Song dynasty, thus resulting in a richly unique beauty. The current figure is noteworthy for its relatively large size and stylistic elements, such as the loops of hair protruding from under the crown at the forehead, characteristic of Liao gilt-bronze sculptures.

For published Liao bronze Buddhist figures, see a figure of a bodhisattva in the British Museum, London, included in the Exhibition of Buddhism, Art and Faith, British Museum, London, 1985, cat. no. 294; another in the Shanghai Museum, illustrated in Gridley, op. cit., pl. 109, fig. 152; and a third in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, acquisition no. 2006.284, illustrated on the museum's website. See also a large figure of Avalokitesvara, attributed to the Liao dynasty, sold in our New York rooms, 22nd September 2004, lot 30.