
Mark Rasmussen
International Director
This auction has ended. View lot details


US$30,000 - US$50,000
Our Indian, Himalayan & Southeast Asian Art specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialist
International Director
尼泊爾 九世紀 無量壽佛銅像
Possessing an obliging regal countenance, he sits elegantly with both palms resting in his lap, facing upwards. Buddha in dhyana mudra can be identified as either Amitayus, often holding a long-life vase, or Amitabha, often holding an alms bowl: two aspects of the same deity. However, it is generally accepted that Amitayus has the appearance of a crowned bodhisattva while Amitabha a Buddha.
The smooth edges, lustrous patina, and considerable loss of gilding indicate the extensive ritual handling, common for Nepalese sculptures. Wrapped tightly around his body, his diaphanous sash and dhoti are barely detectable wrapped tightly around his body, revealing the beautiful contours underneath – a representation of the Gupta ideal that inspired the restrained elegance of Lichhavi style and later Transitional period.
For related, similarly supple, but later Amitayus, see Rossi, Gods and Demons of the Himalayas, Hong Kong, 2012, p.34, no.13, and sold Christie's, New York, 19 March 2013, lot 340. Also compare the present lot to a standing bodhisattva from earlier within the Lichhavi tradition sold at Bonhams, 14 March 2016, lot 17.
Provenance
Rossi & Rossi Ltd, London, 7 November 2007