Lot 1190. A small gilt-bronze figure of the seated Maitreya Buddha, Northern Qi-Tang dynasty, 6th-early 7th century; 5½ in. (14 cm.) high. Estimate USD 15,000 - USD 25,000. Price realised USD 75,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2013

The Buddha of the Future is shown seated with both legs pendent, with the right hand raised in abhaya mudra and the left hand resting on the left knee. The face is well cast with a serene expression below a simple hair line and a rounded usnisa, wood stand.

Note: Maitreya Buddha governs two perfected worlds: Tushita Heaven, which he currently inhabits, and Ketumati, an ideal realm conducive to the pursuit of enlightenment where he will serve as the teaching Buddha.

Compare the gilt-bronze figure of Maitreya with similar treatment of the face and hair, but with more elaborate treatment of the drapery, illustrated in Zhongguo liu shi hai wai fo jiao zao xiang zong he tu mu (Comprehensive Illustrated Catalogue of Chinese Buddhist Statues in Overseas Collections), vol. 4, Beijing, 2005, p. 888, where it is dated Tang dynasty. Also illustrated, p. 770, is a gilt-bronze figure of the seated Buddha, dated later Sui/early Tang dynasty, 1st half of the 7th century, formerly in the Stoclet Collection, with similar treament of the face, hair and drapery.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 21 - 22 March 2013