Lot 821. A large red sandstone head of Vairocana, Song dynasty (960-1279); 24 in. (60.1 cm.) high, composite stand. Estimate USD 18,000 – USD 20,000. Price realised USD 37,800. © Christie's 2023

The full face is carved with a small mouth and hooded eyes below gracefully curved brows. The hair is delineated with rows of tight curls and is surmounted by a crown carved in relief with three figures representing the Buddhas of the past, present and future, each seated on a lotus throne.

Provenance: J. J. Lally & Co., New York.

Note: Vairocana is considered to be the Great Solar Buddha of Light and Truth, and is the Bliss Body of the historical Buddha in Buddhist Law. Vairocana is also considered one of the Five Dhyani Buddhas, also known as the Five Wisdom Tathagatas, which are representations of the five qualities of the Buddha. Unlike other Buddhas, Vairocana is often depicted with an elaborate five-tiered crown, as seen on the present Buddha.

Christie's. J. J. Lally & Co., New York, 23.03.2023