cast in a seated pose, one hand raised, once holding an attribute, the other resting on the knee, attired in voluminous robes, knotted at the waist with a braided cord and falling in crisp, rhythmic folds around the body, the tips of the shoes emerging from the drapery, the hair gathered up in a Daoist cap secured by a pin, the face well-articulated with arching brows over heavy-lidded downcast eyes, an aquiline nose, full lips drawn up in a quiet smile, and a long pointed beard, wood stand (2)

French Private Collection, and thence by descent.

A few scattered patches, likely from the original casting. Scratches and wear to the gilding, minute pitting, dents and oxidation to the underside, and minor casting flaws including a casting gap to the base.
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.

A closely related gilt-bronze figure identified as Laozi and dated to 1438 is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York and illustrated in Denise Patry Leidy and Donna Strahan. Wisdom Embodied—Chinese Buddhist and Daoist Sculpture in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 2010, pl 38.