A gilt bronze figure of Padmasambhava, Tibet,
circa 16th century
Estimate $8,000 – $12,000
cast seated in vajraparyankasana on a double lotus pedestal, the left hand supporting a kapala, his right arm raised wielding a vajra, wearing a cloak incised with lotus scrolls, the face with a stern expression flanked by pendulous earrings, all surmounted by a monk's cap
17.5 cm high
This figure depicts the legendary Indian pandita Padmasambhava, known as Guru Rinpoche to Tibetans. Padmasambhava is recognisable by the iconic peaked Indian cap of a pandita, surmounted with feathers and adorned with a sun and moon, as well as his furrowed brow and the wide, almond-shaped eyes which set him apart as a foreigner. He is depicted holding a vajra in his raised right hand and a kapala in the left hand. His ears are adorned with disk-shaped earrings with a foliate motif, and he wears richly embroidered inner and outer patchwork robes, and pointed Tibetan-style boots.
Known by many different names which reflect his multiple forms, Padmasambhava is credited with establishing Buddhism in Tibet. In the eighth century, the Indian abbot Shantarakshita and the Tibetan chögyal or dharma king Trisong Detsen invited the tantrika Padmasambhava to make the arduous journey to Tibet. Along the way, he encountered and subdued the many local spirits, gods and goddesses and bound them by oath as sworn protectors and protectresses of Buddhism in Tibet. Upon his arrival in Tibet, Padmasambhava subdued the local spirits hindering the construction of Tibet's first monastery, Samye.
Compare a circa 15th century Padmasambhava formerly in the Blanche C. Olschak Collection, see Ulrich von Schroeder, Indo-Tibetan Bronzes, Hong Kong, 1981, p. 449, pl. 122C.
See also a larger figure of Padmasambhava sold Sotheby's, Hong Kong, 1 December 2017, lot 449
- Lot Sold $8,000 (Hammer Price)
- $9,760 (Hammer Price with Buyer's Premium)
Condition Report
Surface accretion, probably from butter-lamp smoke. The staff now missing from left shoulder holder and feather missing from his cap. Some surface wear.
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 Australia is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Saleroom Notices regarding this sale. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT,ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS.
Specialists |
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Guy CairnduffHead Arts & DesignMelbourne T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 E: Guy Cairnduff |
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Geoffrey SmithChairman Australian & International ArtMelbourne | Sydney T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 T: +61 (0)2 9302 2402 E: Geoffrey Smith |
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Ann RobertsSpecialist Consultant, Asian Art Arts & DesignMelbourne T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 E: Ann Roberts |
Anthony HurlSpecialist Consultant Arts & DesignAdelaide T: +61 (0)8 7225 7836 E: Anthony Hur |
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Brett BallardSenior Specialist Australian & International ArtSydney T: +61 (0)2 9302 2402 E: Brett Ballard |
Fiona HaywardSenior Specialist Australian & International ArtMelbourne T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 E: Fiona Hayward |
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