Lot 64. A rare and large gilt-lacquered wood figure of Guanyin, 17th-18th century; 86cm (33 7/8in) high. Estimate £ 80,000-120,000. Sold for £ 206,500 (€ 231,624). Photo Bonhams.

The impressive Goddess of Mercy finely carved seated with the right knee raised supporting her elbow, the limbs of elegant proportion, the flowing robes falling in graceful folds around the body and opening at the chest to reveal an elaborate beaded necklace above a sash tied in a bow at the waist, the broad face with serene expression, her eyes downcast in meditative contemplation, the hair sculpted in a top knot and covered with sweeping veil over the shoulders. 

Provenance: a European private collection.

Note: The striking wood figure of the Goddess of Mercy is expertly carved demonstrating superb craftsmanship, naturalistically rendering the soft folds of the robe cascading over the shoulders and legs, the face gracefully conveying the benevolence of the deity. The imposing size of the present lot suggests it would have been worshipped in a temple or shrine.

The technique of coating carved wood figures with gilt-lacquer appears to have emerged during the early part of the Ming dynasty, continuing on to the Qing dynasty and echoing in form and decoration Buddhist bronze figures. See a related gilt and lacquered wood figure of Guanyin in the British Museum, ref.no.OA+.7339 (illustrated on the museum's website).

Compare a related gilt and lacquered wood Bodhisattva, 16th century, sold at Sotheby's London on 15 May 2013, lot 154.

Bonham's. Fine Chinese Art, London, New Bond Street, 14 May 2015