AN EXCEPTIONAL AND LARGE GILT-LACQUER AND POLYCHROME ZITAN FIGURE OF MAITREYA TIBET, 16TH – 17TH CENTURY |

Good overall condition apart from minor losses and areas of restoration including the tip of the lotus stem above the figure’s right hand, which has been broken off and refixed and the central area of the lotus stem by the left arm, also broken off and refixed. There are minor bruises and chips throughout. Some loss to polychrome.
"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."

This large and sensitively carved zitan figure depicts Maitreya standing regally flanked by lotus stems, with an elaborate crown surmounted by his atrribute the stupa. Maitreya's status in the Buddhist canon is paramount for he embodies the enduring hope for the salvation of all sentient beings. The bodhisattva personifies the principal Buddhist tenet of compassion, clearly portrayed in Maitreya's divine countenance, his princely paradisian status evident in regal jewelry and resplendent celestial presence.

In the Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is said to reside in the perfected world of Tushita Heaven, but in the future age it is believed that he will descend as teacher and saviour of an earthly paradise known as Ketumati.