Page 66 - Himalayan Art Macrh 19 2018 Bonhams

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A BRASS AND COPPER ALLOY FIGURE OF AMITAYUS Cast in two distinct alloys, this delightful bronze of Amitayus, the
TIBET, 15TH CENTURY Buddha of Long Life, exemplifies the rich Sino-Tibetan style of the
Himalayan Art Resources item no.61546 15th century. Prompted by increased trade and diplomatic relations
8 5/8 in. (22 cm) high between Tibet and the Imperial Ming court, this period saw distinctive
refinements and elaborations in Tibetan sculpture.
$40,000 - 60,000
Amitayus represents the ‘subtle, limitless form’ (sambhogakaya) of
西藏 十五世紀 無量壽佛銅像 the Wisdom Buddha Amitabha, here dressed in elaborately chased
garments of scrolling floral and cloud motifs redolent of fine Chinese
silks. The broad facial type and inlaid silver eyes, together with a
simplified treatment of the lotus platform, indicate casting in Central
and Southern Tibet during the 15th century. See von Schroeder,
Indo-Tibetan Bronzes, 1981, p.479, nos. 133D&G. Also see Neven,
Lamaistic Art, Brussels, 1975, no.16, and Bonhams New York, 17
March 2014, lot 14.

Provenance
Eleanor Abraham, New York
Private Asian Collection

64 | BONHAMS