A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF JAMYANG PALDEN RINCHEN TIBET, 16TH – 17TH CENTURY

cast seated in dhyanasana with hands held in dharmachakramudra on a double-lotus base, the base with a thin chevron band bordering the lower edge, the lama dressed in robes densely incised with floral patterns gathering in folds, the facial expression rendered serene with a gentle smile, flanked by a pair of pendulous earlobes, the reverse of the double-lotus base incised with two rows of Tibetan inscription translating to 'May all of the accomplishments of Jamyang Palden Rinchen proliferate', the base unsealed

Collection of Baron Hermann Speck von Sternburg (1852-1908), German diplomat who served as first secretary of the legation at Beijing and later as ambassador to the United States.
The American Art Association, Anderson Galleries, New York, 13th to 16th January 1909, lot 650.
Collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.
Sotheby's London, 6th November 1984, lot 50.
Spink and Son Ltd., London.

As visible in the catalogue photo, there is minor rubbing to the exterior, especially the top of the head. Minor dents and bruises, especially to the base. The base plate is now missing.
"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 inscription on this piece identifies the figure as Jamyang Palden Rinchen, who was a 15th-century teacher specialising in Mahamudra investigation.

Two similarly modelled figures of a lama were sold in these rooms, the first 27th April 1993, lot 275, and the second, of larger size, 30th October 1991, lot 319; and another much larger example was sold in our New York rooms, 9th/10th October 1987, lot 131A.