A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF JAMBHALA 17TH / 18TH CENTURY |

the god of wealth seated with an ingot raised in the proper left hand, the right hand grasping a tael, lacquered hair tied back in a soft cap, the lacquered flaps of the hat curling outward to tapered tips, the round face with polychrome pigment and a full beard, flowing robes embellished with incised lotus roundels covering the rotund body, the deity at ease on a rectangular bench with a vajra at each corner, supported by a stepped base

The Chang Foundation Collection. 

Jintongfo zaoxiang tulu/Buddhist Images in Gilt Metal, Taipei, 1993, pl. 83.

In overall good condition, with wear to the gilding and minor pitting typical for age. The hat with a circular cavity possibly for an inlaid stone, now lost. The facial features' polychromy possibly retouched. The back of the figure and back of the seat with scratches.
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.

The practice and invocation of Jambhala is found in the Anuttarayoga system in the Guhyasamaja, Hevajra and Cakrasamvara Tantras. His worship is associated with the accumulation of wealth, both spiritual and worldly, and the deity is often depicted holding a mongoose disgorging jewels. The present example clearly shows Chinese adoption and sincization of the god, as the attributes chosen were Chinese units of gold and silver.