Lot 169. A rare set of three gilt-lacquered wood figures of the Buddha, 17th-18th century. The largest 55.2cm (21 7/8in) high. Estimate £15,000 - 20,000. Sold for £ 312,562 (€ 356,826). © Bonhams 2001-2019

The trinity including Bhaishajyaguru, Shakyamuni and Amitayus, all depicted seated in dhyanasana wearing pleated garments open at the chest, the serene faces with a meditative expression below thin arched brows and an urna, the hair arranged in rows of small whorls beneath a bud-shaped ushnisha, Bhaishajyaguru with the right hand in dhyanamudra, the left above his lap, Shakyamuni with the right hand in bhumisparsamudraand the left in dhyanamudra, Amitayus with both hands folded in dhyanamudra. 

Provenance: purchased from P.C. Lu in Hong Kong, circa 1980's.

Note: The technique of coating carved wood figures with gilt-lacquer appears to have emerged during the early part of the Ming dynasty and continued into the Qing dynasty. The physical characteristics of the present lot echo those of Tibetan gilt-bronze images and reflects the influence of Tibetan Buddhism on Chinese art.

Compare with a related gilt-lacquered wood figure of Buddha, 18th century, which was sold at Sotheby's New York, 17 September 2014, lot 437.

Bonhams. Fine Chinese Art, London, 16 May 2019