A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF AMITAYUS QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD |

cast in vajraparyankasana with the hands holding a bumpa whilst clasped in dhyana mudra, the blue-pigmented hair swept up in an elaborate double knot with loose curling tresses falling on the shoulders, a five-point diadem with traces of red pigment and tied with billowing ribbons crowning the regal brow, with heavy earrings and elaborate jewelry adorning the body, limbs, and feet, a celestial sash wrapped about the shoulders and arms, the dhoti secured about the waist with a jeweled belt and gathered in neat folds at the hem, all supported on a double-lotus base sealed with a copper plate inscribed with a vishvavajra

The Chang Foundation Collection.

Jintongfo zaoxiang tulu/Buddhist Images in Gilt Metal, Taipei, 1993, pl. 18.

In overall good condition with expected minor pitting and light surface wear. The vessel and base plate retained, however the base plate with slight minor dents and is lifting out of the base slightly; the bronze stays that once secured it have been removed. With much blue pigment still in the hair and with red pigment traces to the back of the crown and jewelry.
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.

Amitayus, the Buddha of Infinite Life, is considered an apparitional form of the Buddha Amitabha; both are typically depicted with red skin in paintings and textiles, denoting their commonality. In Tibetan shrines, a figure of Amitayus is often set alongside a figure of Ushnishavijaya and White Tara, in a longevity triad. Amitabha and Amitayus are celebrated in both Mahayana and Vajrayana practices, and both were popular deities to worship during the Qing dynasty, with figures of the latter being produced in large quantities to commemorate imperial birthdays. Compare a related gilt-bronze example, attributed to the Kangxi period, sold at Christie's Paris, 11th June 2008, lot 289, and another, sold in our London rooms, 2nd November 1984, lot 327.