Lot 88. A large gilt-bronze figure of Guanyin,17th century; 49.5cm., 19 ½ in. Estimate 40,000 — 60,000 GBP. Lot sold 266,500 GBP. Photo Sotheby's 2014

cast seated in dhyanasana with the right hand raised holding the end of a willow stem and the left hand supporting a cup, dressed in long robes engraved with lotus scrolls at the hem, opening at the chest to reveal beaded necklaces, the contemplative face framed by elongated earlobes suspending ornate earrings, the tall headdress centered by a figure of Amitabha Buddha, wood stand. Quantité: 2

Note: According to the Lotus Sutra, Guanyin can take any form necessary to save sentient beings, and the present lot depicts the bodhisattva in the manifestation of Bhaisajyaraja Avalokitesvara. The bowl of elixir held in the left hand is believed to cure all physical and spiritual illnesses, and the willow, which is used to sprinkle the elixir over devotees, has evil dispelling properties.