Lot 183. A white marble head of Buddha, Northern Qi dynasty (550-577); 11 in. (28.0 cm.) high. Estimate GBP 15,000 - GBP 20,000. Price realised GBP 43,250. © Christie's Image Ltd 2010.

The soft face with a serene expression, carved with downcast eyes, straight nose, and small chin below the well-delineated mouth set in a subtle smile, with elongated, pendulous earlobes, curled hair and usnisa.

Provenance: Purchased in Spain, 4 November 1988. 

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, London, 11 May 2010