Lot 736. A gilt-bronze figure of a standing attendant bodhisattva, Eastern Wei dynasty (AD 534-550); 4 3⁄4 in. (12 cm.) high, hardwood stand, softwood box. Estimate USD 10,000 - USD 15,000. Price realised USD 20,160. © Christie's 2022

The figure is shown wearing long, loose robes belted at the waist, with the left hand in abhaya mudra. The face has a serene expression and is backed by a petal-shaped nimbus decorated with flames. The figure is shown standing on a lotus base above a coiled dragon-form support, from which projects an attachment pin. 

Provenance: Important private Japanese collection, prior to 1968, and thence by descent within the family.

Literature: Ancient Chinese Art - The Origin of Japanese Art, Kagawa, 1968, F9.
Kuboso Memorial Museum of Arts, Gilt Bronze Buddha in Six Dynasties, Izumi, 1991, no. 110.

Exhibited: Kagawa Prefecture, Kagawa Prefectural Cultural Hall, Ancient Chinese Art - The Origin of Japanese Art, Kagawa, 1968.

Christie's. Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 25 march 2022