Page 325 - Bonhams Chinese Art London May 2013
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A very large gilt-bronze guardian lokapala figure
18th/19th century
The imposing figure cast looking downwards with a fierce frowning
expression beneath the thick steeply-slanting brows, below an elaborate
crown linked to the high topknot by an open-beaked bird concealing
two stylised characters, the figure with the right hand raised clutching
a vajra and the left hand on the hip, the shoulders of the militaristic
clothing inlaid with stones to form constellations above a lion head at
the elbow, the flowing robe beneath armour draped with a loose sash
around the right leg raised on the high rocky base, the base possibly
Japanese.
Figure 145cm (57in), base 42cm (16½in), overall 173cm (68in) high. (2).
£15,000 - 25,000
HK$180,000 - 290,000 CNY140,000 - 240,000
十八/十九世紀 銅鎏金護法神立像
It is highly unusual to find a large bronze figure, related in form and
poise to Tang Dynasty lokapalas or guardian deities, usually set up in
pairs to protect the tomb of a high-ranking official or dignitary. The
fierce expression and military uniform suggest that the same basic
function of guarding and protecting was intended for this striking figure.
