The
Quanyin Buddha sits in full lotus position, the feet flat against the knees, and
a pearl of wisdom rest on her opened palms. The style of the statue bears certain
resemblance with Graeco-Indian art, which may be interpreted in her face and head
dress, elegantly draped garment covers the body in facile pleats. The small bronze
votive figure is a fine specimen clearly belongs to a group of Buddhist statues
which are commissioned by a Buddhist practitioner at the fourth century. The inscription
in the back of the statue can be translated into: On the first day of third month,
sixth year of peaceful true emperor of the great Wei Dynasty, Cheung Jiang Hing
respectfully made the image of Buddha in honor of father, mother and lineage.
The incripted date is equivalent to 392 AD.
The
bronze has a smooth patina in beautiful dark green, with small patches of azurite
both in the front and back. Minor abrasions show through with a the redish color,
which appears to have a high copper content.
Sold
to Private Collection
