A WHITE MARBLE INSCRIBED TRIAD GROUP NORTHERN QI DYNASTY, DATED TIANBAO TENTH YEAR, CORRESPONDING TO 559 |

the central Buddhist deity seated in the 'pensive pose' on a throne with the proper right leg crossed over the left knee, the right hand and index finger raised to the face in a gesture of deep contemplation, the head crowned, with long sashes hanging over the shoulders and the body dressed in long robes cascading in rounded folds over the legs, the throne backed by a circular mandorla and flanked by two attendant bodhisattvas standing serenely in prayer with smaller mandorlas and simple monk's robes, each figure supported by a tiered, stepped circular double-base underfoot, further supported by a rectangular base, all carved from a single stone, the plinth side and back inscribed with a dedicatory inscription dated to the intercalary month of the tenth year of Tianbao, corresponding to 559, the reverse of the main mandorla with traces of a polychrome painted scene including a haloed deity figure

The shrine is in generally good condition for its age, with only chips to the edges (especially at the lower edge of the base), minor expected scattered nicks to the surface, and softening of some of the carved details. Much of the polychrome at the back of the mandorla has been lost. The underside of the base is carved concave. The stone is a lighter, warmer reddish tone compared to the catalogue illustration.
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.