cast standing with left hip thrust slightly forward, dressed in a dhoti and draped with scarves, the torso bare except for a large necklace, the left hand holding aloft a garlic-mouth ewer, the right hand holding a string of prayer beads, the full round face with a serene expression below an elaborate coiffure adorned with jewels and tied with long trailing ribbons that reach down to the feet, all supported on a circular plinth

Acquired in the 1980s from a San Francisco Collection formed in the 1960s.

There is a break to both sides of the scarf. There is a small section missing to the lower right section of the scarf and the lower section of the scarf hanging from the left elbow. There is a small section of hair missing below the left ear. One finger is missing to the left hand. There is overall loss to gilding. The center of the base has been drilled to be fitted to the stand.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This image is typical of the high Tang style which was able to combine physicality and spirituality into images of great beauty. Similar figures can be seen in the collections of the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, illustrated in Chinese Art in Overseas Collections, Buddhist Sculpture 1, Taipei, 1986, no. 107, which retains its original lotus stand; and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, also illustrated ibid., Buddhist Sculpture II, no. 117.