Lot 253. A large gilt-bronze head of Bixia Yuanjun, Ming dynasty (1368-1644). Height 17 ⅝ in., 44.8 cm. Estimate: 30,000 - 50,000 USD. Lot sold: 151,200 USD. Courtesy Sotheby's.

the guardian deity standing, with the right hand lowered to the side and the left raised with an outstretched palm, the crisply modeled youthful face gazing forward intently below a winged helmet adorned with phoenix, wearing ornate armor secured with cords, sashes and an inlaid belt, further adorned with ferocious mythical beasts, a celestial scarf encircling the shoulders, extensively detailed and gilt, later stand.

Sotheby's. Important Chinese Art, New York, 17 march 2021