Lot 639. A rare gilt-copper figure of Vasudhara, Nepal, 14th –15th century; with stand h. 17.2 cm, 6 3/4  in. Estimate 450,000 — 600,000 HKD. Courtesy Sotheby's.

the bodhisattva of wealth and abundance seated in lalitasana with six arms radiating around the body, the first right hand in abhayamudra, the remaining hands holding various attributes, such as jewellery, a treasure vase, a sheaf of grain and a sacred text, clad in a dhoti finely incised with geometric patterns and adorned with embellished jewellery, the hair knotted into a double bun and secured by a jewelled crown, the serene face accentuated with a downcast gaze below an urna.

Himalayan Art Resources item no. 13511.

Note: The present figure, seated in lalitasana with six arms elegantly radiating around the feminine body, the first right hand in abhayamudra, and the other hands respectively holding a treasure vase, a sheaf of grain, a sacred text and various jewelleries, depicts the Bodhisattva Vasudhara, the goddess of wealth, fertility and abundance. Also referred to as ‘Bearer of Treasures’, she is the Buddhist counterpart of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. Portrayed in the iconic six-armed tantric form, she is seen as the partner of the god of wealth, Jambhala, who emanates from the five Tathagata.