Lot 80. A large and rare gilt copper-alloy figure of Shakyamuni Buddha, Tibet, circa 16th century; 26cm (10 2/8in) high. Estimate £ 3,000-4,000. Sold for £ 18,750 (€ 21,456). © Bonhams.

The figure well cast, seated in vajraparyankasana on a beaded double-lotus base, the right hand held in bhumisparsha mudra, the left in dhyana mudra, wearing a voluminous robe finely incised with floral scrolls, draping elegantly over his shoulders and falling in loose folds over his crossed legs, the serene face with a meditative expression and downcast eyes, flanked by pendulous ears cut with vertical slots, the hair and ushnisha arranged in tight curls and supporting an ovoid jewel, the sealed base incised with a double vajra.

Provenance: the Jeannette Claude Jongen collection of Buddhist Art.

Published and Illustrated: A.Neven, Etudes D'Art Lamaique et de L'Himalaya, Brussels, 1978, pp.117-118, pl.22 (the catalogue is offered as part of the lot).

Note: The sumptuous robes falling in compacted delicate folds across the arms and legs are similar to those of a circa 15th century Buddhist hierarch in the Nyingjei Lam Collection, see J.Casey and D.Weldon, The Sculptural Heritage of Tibet, London, 1999, p. 133, no.49. Both figures share the same attenuated form and are raised on similar lotus bases. The hemlines are incised with bold foliate designs, as is the unusual under-garment across his chest. Compare with a gilt bronze Maitreya of similar proportions and wearing a full cloak-like garment sold at Christie's New York, 17 September 1998, lot 133.

Bonhams. FINE CHINESE ART, London, 12 November 2015